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

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CHAPTER EIGHT Organization, Structure, and Personnel for Diaconal Formation

I. ORGANIZATION Diocesan Plan for Diaconal Ministry

270 The reestablishment or renewal of diaconal ministry within a diocesan Church is best conceived and established within an overall diocesan plan for ministry in which the diaconate is seen as an integral component in addressing pastoral needs. In this way, deacons, who are ordained for service to the diocesan Church, will have a richer and firmer sense of their identity and purpose, as will those who collaborate in ministry with them. Resources for Organization 271 Primary resources to guide a diocese in its discernment and readiness for the reestablishment or renewal of the diaconate are the Code of Canon Law and other documents of the Holy See, such as the Basic Norms for the Formation of Permanent Deacons and Directory for the Ministry and Life of Permanent Deacons , in addition to this National Directory for the Formation, Ministry, and Life of Permanent Deacons in the United States . These resources establish norms and directives that each diocese is to fol low in the formation, ministry, and life of their deacons. Those responsi ble for the planning and implementation of the diaconal program should be thoroughly familiar with the intent and content of these documents. 272 The Secretariat for Clergy, Consecrated Life, and Vocations of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops is also at the service of the diocesan bishop, especially regarding procedures for planning, request ing review of a formation proposal, and implementing the diaconate. Formal review of existing programs by a visiting team organized by

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