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 PERMANENT DEACON

The Call to the Diaconate

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Do you feel called to a ministry of service?
 
That will be your ministry for life as a deacon:
~Service of the Word  ~Service of the Altar  ~Service of the Charity
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As ministers of Word, deacons proclaim the Gospel, preach and teach in the name of the Church.

As ministers of the Altar, deacons baptize, lead the faithful in prayer, witness marriages, and conduct wake and funeral services.

As ministers of Charity, deacons are leaders in identifying the needs of others. They are also dedicated to eliminating the injustices or inequities that cause such needs.

But no matter what specific functions a deacon performs, they flow from his sacramental identity.  In other words, it is not only WHAT a deacon does, but WHO a deacon is, that is important.

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Requirements for consideration of acceptance into the program:

  • Age: 32 to 62 years old when entering the Diaconate Formation Program.

  • Sacraments: Baptism, First Comunion, Confirmation, and Marriage (if married).

  • Marital Status:

    • If married: live in a stable relationship and have the complete support and permission of your wife as well as her commitment to accompany you to the required diaconate formation. If there are children, their support is also necessary and they must be old enough to be left alone or demonstrate that adequate child care will be available​.

    • If single: must live a chaste life; you will not be permitted to marry once ordained a deacon.

  • Education: High School Diploma, GED, or equivalent.

  • Formation:

    • Parish Ministry Formation Program (PMFP) and corresponding Specialization Course​.

    • Completion of at least two years of the Continuing Ministry Formation Program (CMFP) - Ministerial Leadership Formation track.

    • Safe Environment Training (Protecting God's Children).

    • Meet fingerprint background criteria.

  • Parish Life:

    • Recommendation and support from the pastor.

    • At least three years of significant ministry and leadership at a parish in the Diocese of San Bernardino (Extraordinary Minister of Holy Communion, Lector, Liturgy Specialist, Social Outreach, etc.​).

  • Be in good physical and psychological health.

More information:

For any additional information, please contact:
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Deacon Luis Sanchez

Vicar for Deacons

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Office for Deacons

1201 E. Highland Ave.

San Bernardino, CA 92404

Phone: (909) 475-5160

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