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

NDPD 202

National Directory for Permanent Deacons

a. Regular participation in the Eucharist which goes beyond the ful fillment of obligations, Liturgy of the Hours, and the Sacrament of Penance 13 b. Time scheduled for private prayer, meditation, and lectio divina c. Devotions to the Virgin Mary and saints d. Conferences and workshops on the meaning of authentic obedi ence, celibacy, and simplicity of life e. Conferences on a Christian witness in both matrimonial and celi bate life to the Church and world f. An understanding and appreciation of the diaconal vocation, with an ability to articulate this call through the primary ministries of word, liturgy, and charity g. An introduction and experience of the spiritual writings of our Catholic Tradition 202 The aspirant’s spiritual director is critical to the formation process. There fore, this priest, who is to be approved by the diocesan bishop, must be well trained and knowledgeable about the diaconate. The spiritual direc tor accompanies, supports, and challenges the aspirant in his ongoing conversion. The spiritual director assists the aspirant in his relationship with God and promotes his understanding that it is Christ who calls, the Church who affirms his diaconal vocation, and the diocesan bishop who responds to that affirmation by the imposition of hands. 203 As collaborators in discerning the readiness of the aspirant to move into candidate formation, the parish and its pastor also should accompany the aspirant and his family by means of their prayers, support, and pres ence. In the aspirant stage of formation, the parish is the primary place to observe the aspirant’s relational skills and his practice in pastoral ser vice. The pastor, therefore, is to provide an assessment of the aspirant and his family. This assessment will further enable the formation staff

13 These recommendations presuppose that he is already meeting his obligations to attend weekly Sunday Mass and all Holy Days of Obligation. See CIC, c. 1247.

100