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

NDPD 250

National Directory for Permanent Deacons

sexuality, and social-ministerial ethics. The social teaching of the Church should be presented substantially. (133, 227) 9. From historical studies, the candidate should be introduced to the history of the Church through the ages with an emphasis on patristics. The candidates should be familiar with the multicultural origins of the Church in the United States of America. (133, 227) 10. From canon law, the core studies should include a general introduc tion and those canons specific to the exercise of the diaconate, in particular marriage legislation, as well as the obligations and rights of clerics and the canons relevant to diocesan structures and the administration of temporal goods. In addition, a provision should be made for instruction on the USCCB’s Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People and Essential Norms for Diocesan/Epar chial Policies for Dealing with Allegations of Sexual Abuse of Minors by Priests or Deacons . (133, 227) 11. From spirituality, the core studies should include an introduction to spirituality, to spiritual direction, to lay spirituality, and to a selec tion of classic spiritual writers. (132, 227) 12. From Liturgy, the core studies should include an introduction to Liturgy and to the historical, spiritual, and juridical aspects of Liturgy. (133, 227) 13. Practica for the ministry of liturgy should include specific training in the functions of the deacon during the Eucharist, Baptism, Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults, the Sacrament of Matrimony, the rites of Christian burial, and other liturgical ministries of the diaconate. (138, 139) 14. From homiletics, deacons should have courses specifically aimed at preparing and delivering homilies. (139) 15. Pastoral formation must include a wide diversity of pastoral services, including opportunities for theological reflection. Attention should be given to the study of the role of culture in human and spiritual formation. (135, 138, 140, 142, 228)

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