National Directory

154

ORGANIZATION, STRUCTURE, AND PERSONNEL FOR DIACONAL FORMATION

for the discernment and formation” of aspirants and candidates, as well as the pastoral care of deacons. 6 He discharges this responsibility personally, as well as through “suitable associates” who assist him— including the Director of the Permanent Diaconate. The Director is accountable directly to the diocesan bishop or, in his absence, to a cler ic whom the diocesan bishop has appointed as his delegate: e.g., vicar general, vicar for the clergy. 7 While the diocesan bishop may exercise his responsibility through his formation associates, nevertheless “he will commit himself, as far as is possible, to knowing personally those who are preparing for the diaconate.” 8 IV. Recruitment and Preparation of Formation Personnel 280. Because of the specialized nature of deacon formation, and in order to ensure continuity among program personnel, the diocesan bishop or religious ordinary should encourage experienced and qualified priests and deacons to consider preparing themselves for the apostolate of deacon formation. Religious and lay persons may assist in suitable capacities in deacon formation; those selected by the diocesan bishop to do so should receive appropriate preparation for their role. 281. Continuity in staffing and programming, as well as a planned transition in personnel, ought to receive the highest priority. The administrative staff and formation faculty must comply with the personnel policies established by the diocesan Church for its clergy and lay staff, policies that may include term limits. Such compliance will help in planning for an orderly transition among formation personnel. Continuity

282. Opportunities for sabbaticals, training, and internships for priests,