10.16.09 Formation Program for Permanent Deacons

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
October 16, 2009  

FOR MORE INFORMATION:
OFFICE OF COMMUNICATION
603-669-3100, EXT. 185

DIOCESE OF MANCHESTER ANNOUNCES FORMATION PROGRAM FOR
PERMANENT DEACONS

This weekend, October 17 – 18, 2009, parishioners at Roman Catholic churches throughout the state will be informed of the upcoming formation program for the Permanent Diaconate, the Church’s education and training program for new permanent deacons.  Applications will be available in November 2009, and the program will begin in September 2010.

A permanent deacon can be either married or single. He is an ordained minister of the Catholic Church who works collaboratively with the bishop and the priests of the diocese to serve in numerous liturgical and charitable roles. Deacons proclaim the Gospel and preach, and perform certain sacraments including baptism and marriage ceremonies. Permanent deacons also assist within parishes, serve as chaplains in hospitals and prisons, preside at funerals and wakes, and minister to those in need including the sick, the homebound, and refugees. More information on the ministry of the diaconate can be found in the Frequently Asked Questions section of www.catholicnh.org/newdeacons.

Currently, there are 44 active and seven retired deacons serving in the diocese.  The program to prepare new permanent deacons is the culmination of a long effort to develop a model that can meet the continuing needs of the diocese over time by producing another ordination class every three years.

The Permanent Diaconate Formation Program lasts four years and is divided into two parts: one year of Aspirancy and followed by three years of Candidacy where the candidate undergoes further academic, spiritual and pastoral formation. The program culminates in ordination as a permanent deacon by the Bishop of Manchester.
Men interested in becoming permanent deacons are encouraged to speak with their pastors and families about the program. Four information sessions are scheduled in November at locations throughout the state and further information about the program can be found at: www.catholicnh.org/newdeacons.