Diaconal Formation Program

Mission Statement:

Our mission is to accompany Deacon candidates in their formation journey for the diaconate, fostering their growth in pastoral, spiritual, and human virtues. Recognizing the insights of Our Lord Jesus Christ, we center our approach on the call to be Christ-like in their mission, aiming to cultivate a deep understanding of their calling to the clergy and specifically to the diaconate within the Catholic Church.

We believe in a comprehensive approach to formation, which includes not only theological education but also spiritual depth, emotional maturity, and psychological well-being. Our goal is to prepare candidates for effective and holistic ministry by integrating these aspects of clerical formation, equipping them to serve the Church and the community with integrity and compassion.

Discernment Plan:

Initial Assessment:

• Conduct individual interviews with each candidate to understand their background, motivations, and aspirations.
• Explore key questions such as: Why do you want to be in the Clergy? Why do you want to be a Deacon?
• Assess their current level of pastoral, spiritual, and human virtues through self-assessment tools and discussions.

Formation Program:

• Design a comprehensive formation program tailored to the specific needs and challenges of each candidate.
• Offer regular seminars, workshops, and retreats focused on pastoral ministry, spiritual growth, and human development.
• Provide opportunities for candidates to engage in pastoral activities within the parish community, allowing them to apply theoretical knowledge to practical situations.

Spiritual Direction:

• Assign a spiritual director to each candidate to guide them in their spiritual journey and discernment process.
• Encourage candidates to cultivate a regular prayer life, participate in spiritual exercises, and deepen their relationship with God.
• Provide resources and support for candidates to explore various spiritual practices and traditions within the Catholic Church.

Virtue Formation:

• Integrate virtues-based education into the formation curriculum, emphasizing the importance of cultivating virtues such as humility, compassion, integrity, and servant leadership.
• Facilitate discussions and reflective exercises to help candidates recognize their strengths and areas for growth in virtue.
• Encourage candidates to seek accountability partners or mentors who can provide support and encouragement in their journey toward virtuous living.

Ongoing Discernment:

• Foster a culture of discernment within the formation community, where candidates are encouraged to reflect on their vocation regularly.
• Provide opportunities for candidates to discern their ministry priorities and explore different avenues for service within the Church.
• Offer guidance and support as candidates navigate through discernment challenges, doubts, and uncertainties, helping them to remain steadfast in their commitment to the diaconate.

By implementing this discernment plan, we aim to empower Deacon candidates to discern their vocation authentically, deepen their spiritual life, and develop the virtues necessary to fulfill their mission as ordained ministers in the Catholic Church, in alignment with the example and teachings of Christ.