The National Directory for the Formation, Ministry, and the Life of Permanent Deacons in the United States (Ascension)

NDPD 166

National Directory for Permanent Deacons

6. Pastoral formation must include theological reflection so the partic ipant may integrate his ministerial activity with the broad scope of diaconal studies. (142) 7. A married man cannot be considered for the diaconate without the consent of his wife. (148) 8. While every effort ought to be made to involve the wife of a married participant and deacon in an appropriate level of participation in her husband’s formation, care must simultaneously be taken to keep clear the essential distinction between ordained and familial life and the clear independence of diaconal ministry. (149) 9. The cultures and traditions of those in diaconal formation— mirroring as they do the rich diversity of gifts in the Church—need to be respected and valued. Formation, therefore, must be sensitive and adapted to the circumstances of different cultures. (155) 10. Assessments are valuable occasions for the discernment, affirmation, and development of a participant’s vocation. Assessments should be made and communicated on a regular basis. (163) 11. All stages, both initial and ongoing, of a well-conceived diocesan formation program will comply fully with the document of the Congregation for Catholic Education Basic Norms for the Formation of Permanent Deacons , as well as this National Directory . (166)

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