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

NDPD

Aspirant Stage of Diaconal Formation

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diaconal sacramental identity with life in a secular world after ordina tion, stress reduction, and virtue inculcation.

198 The aspirant stage of formation is also a time for a married aspirant and his wife to assess the quality of their relationship and consider the rami fications that his possible ordination to the diaconate will have for their married life. For the single aspirant, it is a time to discern his capacity and receptivity for celibacy. Spiritual Dimension 199 The aspirant stage of formation must create an environment in which the individual is encouraged to grow in his personal relationship with Christ and in his commitment to the Church and its mission in the world. The goal of spiritual formation is “putting on the mind of Christ,” thereby establishing and nurturing attitudes, habits, and practices that provide a foundation for the development of an authentic and ongoing spiritual life. 200 Although it is clearly understood that the wife of the married aspirant is not seeking ordination, nevertheless, their marriage and family are involved in the discernment of his diaconal vocation. The aspirant and his wife need to realistically assess how her own life, church service, and family are affected and respected. The enrichment and deepening of the reciprocal and sacrificial love between husband and wife constitute perhaps the most meaningful way in which the wife of the aspirant is involved in the discernment of her husband’s vocation. 12

201 The aspirant formation community plays a significant role in spiritual formation. The aspirant stage should include the following:

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ADUS.

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