The Diaconate

Behavioral patterns discerned among exemplary deacons: from The National Directory for the Formation, Ministry, and Life of Permanent Deacons in the United States, Second Edition, United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, 2021:

• A “natural inclination of service to the ... Christian community” and to all in need
• Psychological integrity
• A capacity for dialogue, which implies a sense of docility and openness
• The ability to share one’s faith yet listen respectfully to other points of view
• The capacity to listen carefully and without prejudice — respecting people in the context of their religion, race, gender, ethnicity and culture
• Good communication skills; public speaking ability; potential for preaching, catechizing and evangelization
• A sense of responsibility that includes fulfilling one’s word and completing one’s work
• Self-directed and collaborative accountability
• Balanced and prudent judgment
• Generosity in service
• The ability to lead, motivate, facilitate and animate others into appropriate action and service

Spiritual and evangelical qualities of deacons include:

• A discernment of a call to the office of deacon
• A sound faith and a good Christian reputation
• Active involvement in the Church with demonstrated leadership in the area of social concerns and justice
• Personal integrity, maturity and holiness
• Regular participation in the Church’s sacramental life
• Evidence of recognized ongoing love and commitment to the Church’s life and service (pastor, pastoral staff, parish council, family and friends).
• Participation in faith enrichment opportunities (retreats, days of reflection, adult education programming or lay ministry formation)
• Understanding and willingness to accept the demands of formation and subsequent lifelong learning and commitment to diaconal ministry
• A positive and stable marriage, if married, or a mature celibate state of life if single (understanding and approval of applicant’s spouse if married)
• Active membership in a Christian community for at least five years, with at least two years in the current parish
• Capacity for obedience and fraternal communion
• A deep spirituality and prayer life
• At least 30 and no older than 60 years of age at start of formation
• Written endorsement and ongoing support of the Pastor or Parish Director throughout the years of formation
• Sufficient economic security and job stability
• Demonstrated fidelity and love for all that the Church teaches
• Good health, ability to handle college-level work, and to function in an adult learning environment
• Is capable of giving serious attention and time to theological study, spiritual growth, pastoral ministry and personal transformation in a multi-cultural setting
• Has a love for the Church and the ability to adapt to the future needs of the Church
• Demonstrates active involvement at the parish in some or all of the following areas: charity, justice, advocacy, faith formation, liturgy and parish life
• Exhibits servant leadership
• Free of canonical impediments or irregularities (CIC, cc. 1040-1042)
• Proof of U.S. citizenship or permanent resident status

Particular law in the Archdiocese of Milwaukee includes:

• At least 30 and no older than 60 years of age at start of formation
• Written endorsement and ongoing support of the Pastor or Parish Director throughout the years of formation
• Sufficient economic security and job stability
• Demonstrated fidelity and love for all that the Church teaches

Other Criteria:

• Good health, ability to handle college-level work, and to function in an adult learning environment
• Is capable of giving serious attention and time to theological study, spiritual growth, pastoral ministry and personal transformation in a multi-cultural setting
• Has a love for the Church and the ability to adapt to the future needs of the Church
• Demonstrates active involvement at the parish in some or all of the following areas: charity, justice, advocacy, faith formation, liturgy and parish life
• Exhibits servant leadership
• Free of canonical impediments or irregularities (CIC, cc. 1040-1042)
• Proof of U.S. citizenship or permanent resident status