What is the diaconate?
The diaconate is one of three orders of ordained ministers in the Catholic Church.  The other two are the episcopate (bishops) and presbytery (priests).  Deacons are called to be sacramental signs of service and leaders in utilizing Church resources to help the poor and underprivileged.  As Ministers of the Word, deacons proclaim the Gospel, preach at Mass, administer the Sacrament of Baptism, witness marriages, and perform funeral services. 

Since the beginnings of our faith, those preparing for the presbytery would first complete various stages of ministry.  The diaconate is the last stage a man must complete in order to be ordained a priest.  Today, those studying for the priesthood must still become deacons before being ordained a priest, but since the Second Vatican Council, the Church has decided to make the deaconate a permanent vocation.

 

Can married men become deacons?
Yes.  Since the Second Vatican Council, the Church opened the diaconate to “mature married men” over the age of 35.  This decision was made in order to keep the ancient tradition of ordaining married men.  However, also in accordance with tradition is the expectation for a married man not to re-marry should his wife die once he is ordained to ministry. 

 

***How do I know if I’m I called to be a permanent deacon? (Need help!)
Like any vocation, the diaconate also requires much prayer and spiritual direction.  However, discerning the diaconate is slightly different than discerning the priesthood or religious life because this vocation is a type of “calling within a calling”.  In other words, men who are discerning to become deacons have usually already found and embraced their call to marriage and to raise a family.  This means that men who are thinking about serving the Church in this way are able to…