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Diaconate

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Deacon Formation
Process / Forms

A deacon is an ordained leader whose work is already focused on the practical and pastoral needs of people in the community. Deacons serve directly under the bishop and usually work with the poor, the sick and the oppressed. Once ordained, deacons perform baptisms and minister alongside priests. Except for celebrating holy Eucharist, deacons exercise similar skills to priests and demonstrate the same commitment to their community and congregations.

Personal Traits Typical Duties
Passion for the Gospel of Jesus Christ Help people with physical, spiritual and advocacy needs
Love of prayer and worship Assist with worship services
Intellectual vigor Provide pastoral care
Leadership experience Teach the Christian faith
Stable personal life Proclaim the Gospel in the World
Empathy and understanding  
Communication skills  
Involvement in the world  
Geographic mobility  

Process

It usually takes about two years to become a vocational deacon. Typical diaconate candidates continue working in what is called their "bridge ministry," usually involving social problems in the community. Their formal education consists of simultaneous participation in the Episcopal Leadership Institute (one year) and the Diaconal Formation Institute (18 months).

When Who What
-- You and your priest Form a Parish Discernment Committee to help you clarify your call
-- You and the Parish Discernment Committee Meet several times to discuss your call
-- You Complete the application process
-- You and your priest Meet with a Commission on Ministry representative
-- Commission on Ministry Interviews you for postulancy
-- Bishop Interviews you for postulancy
-- You Begin the Episcopal Leadership Institute, and simultaneously, the Diaconal Formation Institute
6 months into school Faculty of the Diaconal Formation Institute Conducts an interim interview
About 12 months after the bishop grants you postulancy Commission on Ministry & Standing Committee

Interview you for candidacy

-- Bishop Approves your candidacy
After 18 months of Diaconal Formation Institute You Take Diaconal Formation Institute final examination
-- Commission on Ministry & Standing Committee Interview you
-- Bishop Ordains you as a vocational deacon and assigns you to a church

 

Forms

Here you can download lists, approved resources, applications and forms necessary for the process of becoming a deacon. Simply click on the document you need.

  
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