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

NDPD

Candidate Stage of Diaconal Formation

228

h. To acquaint him with Catholic classical and contemporary spiritual writings and the witness of the saints i. To prepare him for the challenges of spiritual leadership that his ministry will entail Intellectual Dimension 227 The intellectual dimension of the candidate stage of formation must be carefully designed. A description of the core content for the candidate can be found in norms 5 through 12 at the end of this chapter. The intel lectual dimension is “oriented toward ministry, providing the candidate with the knowledge and appreciation of the faith that he needs in order to carry out his ministry” 17 of word, liturgy, and charity. The course of study is to be complete and must be in harmony with the magisterial teaching of the Church so that the future deacon is a “reliable witness of the faith and spokes[man] for the Church’s teaching.” 18 It should also take into account the specific diaconal services the candidate will pro vide in the communities that he will be appointed to serve, as well as topics that reflect the specific concerns of the Church in the United States of America. The intellectual dimension must equip the candidate for his leadership and participation in the new evangelization and for his effective heralding of the Gospel in today’s society. Studies of Sacred Scripture, Liturgy, canon law, marriage and family, lay spirituality, social doctrine, evangelization, and missiology are to be given prominence. Pastoral Dimension 228 “During formation, engagement in a wide diversity of” pastoral place ments, “at least on a limited basis, will not only give the candidate a greater awareness of the needs and mission of the [diocesan] Church, but will assist in the discernment and development of his own . . . talents and gifts.” 19 These pastoral experiences “should provide an opportunity

17 18 19

PDG (1984), no. 75. PDG (1984), no. 78. PDG (1984), no. 84.

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