Formation

Based on the National Directory for the formation, Ministry and Life of a Permanent Deacon in the United States, First Three years of Ordination is called Post Ordination Formation, followed by two years of supervised Ministry. Formation during the immediate three years following ordination, continues with a deepening of the four dimensions of formation (Human, Spiritual, Pastoral and Intellectual) of the man in the diaconal ministry to which he is now ordained. There are nine scheduled Saturdays of formation per year which the newly ordained man is required to attend. He may also be asked to assist, lead and/or serve in various archdiocesan events. He may also be asked to attend training sessions leading to specialized work, as an Advocate for those seeking annulments. In reality, formation never ends. Over time, the deacon constantly discovers how the Holy Spirit is continually moving and shaping him into the Servanthood of Christ.