National Directory

124

CANDIDATE STAGE OF DIACONAL FORMATION

pastoral dimension is to provide a significant grounding in the social justice teaching of the Church. V. The Assessment of Candidates

Formational Assessment

229. A primary opportunity for assessment of the candidate occurs within an actual pastoral setting. Can the candidate do that which his training is preparing him to do? Does the way in which he presents himself in pastoral ministry show, for example, an integrated and balanced sense of the ecclesiology of the Second Vatican Council and an understand ing of his role within the Church and in its mission of service? Does the way he participates in and leads prayerful gatherings of his community give evidence of liturgical knowledge and cultural sensitivity? Can he demonstrate a properly formed conscience and moral sensitivity? Can he form others in a convincing, sound manner? Each diocese should find those assessment methods that best measure the progress of each candidate in appropriating the diaconal identity and mission. In the interest of transparency and fairness, the assessment methods/bench marks chosen by the diocesan bishop and formation faculty are to be well articulated and provided in writing with clear explanations to the candidates, so they are aware of them before evaluations. 230. A further means of assessing the candidate is theological reflection on his pastoral assignment. Here the role of the peer community is of utmost importance.The candidate reports on his pastoral assignment, and the community enables him to reflect upon the human, spiritual, intellectual, and pastoral dimensions of his actions.This format greatly fosters the sense of partnership in assessment.

231. Another opportunity for assessment lies in the classroom, where