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

NDPD 206

National Directory for Permanent Deacons

commitment to these ministries. It also enables an assessment of his wife in her readiness to give consent and support to his vocation and ministry. Pastoral formation should introduce the aspirant to the practical services provided by the diocesan Church, and it should explore the core social issues confronting the diocese. Exemplary deacons or priests, approved by the diocesan bishop, should serve as mentors 14 inviting the aspirant to accompany, observe, assist, and reflect upon the specific diaconal minis tries experienced. 15 Appropriate ecumenical pastoral experiences should be considered and implemented as opportunities emerge. Opportunities should also be provided, when possible, for involvement with the Jewish community and with representatives of other religions. III. ASSESSMENT FOR NOMINATION INTO THE CANDIDATE STAGE OF FORMATION 206 The conclusion of the aspirant stage of formation is determined through a formal assessment conducted by the committee on admission. This occurs when the aspirant (with the consent of his wife, if married), with the express permission of those responsible for his formation, makes a written petition to the diocesan bishop for admission to candidacy. a. A personal, handwritten, and signed letter prepared for the diocesan bishop by the aspirant requesting admission to the candidate stage of formation, as well as the reception of the Rite of Admission to Candidacy. 16 In his letter, the aspirant must state his motivation and reasons for the requests. If he is married, he must indicate his awareness of the impact of diaconal ordination and ministry on his marriage and 14 When this National Directory uses the term “mentor,” it is referring to the “tutor” from the Basic Norms for the Formation of Permanent Deacons . See BNFPD, nos. 20, 22, 42, 70. 15 BNFPD, no. 22. 16 See CIC, c. 1034 §1. 207 When the decision to petition for candidacy is determined, the follow ing documents are to be prepared:

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