Diocese of San Diego

POLICY ON THE ONGOING FORMATION OF DEACONS

Permanent deacons have a responsibility to deepen their spiritual lives and to develop their ministerial abilities. This ongoing formation, with sensitivity to cultural diversity, is to include, as a minimum, the following:

I. Not less than a three-day annual RETREAT and participation in the annual CONVOCATION OF DEACONS; these activities are required.

A. The place of primary ministry shall pay for expenses up to $300 for the annual retreat and up to $200 for the annual convocation.

B. Wives of deacons are encouraged to attend an annual retreat and the convocation. It is recommended that the place of primary ministry pay for related expenses.

II. Deacons are expected to participate annually in thirty (30) hours of diocesan sponsored in-service training programs and of other freely chosen ministerial enrichment activities. The place of primary ministry shall pay for expenses up to $350.

III. Deacons are expected to participate in ongoing spiritual direction and to pray morning and evening prayer from the Liturgy of the Hours.

IV. Deacons are encouraged to participate in a diaconal community support group for the purpose of prayer, mutual sharing and reflection.

A. Diaconal support groups may be organized along deanery or regional lines, by ordination class, or among those involved in similar areas of ministry.

B. Wives of deacons are encouraged to participate in such support groups or to form similar groups of their own to focus on their personal needs and concerns.