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

NDPD

Organization, Structure, and Personnel

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278 Although coming together as a diaconal formation community is essen tial, distance learning can be a powerful instrument that supports a fam ily perspective in diaconal formation, as well as an adult’s capacity for self-formation with professional guidance.

III. THE ROLE OF THE DIOCESAN BISHOP IN DIACONATE FORMATION

279 In the formation of deacons, “the first sign and instrument of the Spirit of Christ is the proper Bishop. . . . He is the one ultimately responsible for the discernment and formation” of aspirants and candidates, as well as the pastoral care of deacons. 6 He discharges this responsibility person ally, as well as through “suitable associates” who assist him—including the Director of the Permanent Diaconate. The Director is accountable directly to the diocesan bishop or, in his absence, to a cleric whom the diocesan bishop has appointed as his delegate: e.g., vicar general, vicar for the clergy. 7 While the diocesan bishop may exercise his responsibility through his formation associates, nevertheless “he will commit himself, as far as is possible, to knowing personally those who are preparing for the diaconate.” 8

IV. RECRUITMENT AND PREPARATION OF FORMATION PERSONNEL

280 Because of the specialized nature of deacon formation, and in order to ensure continuity among program personnel, the diocesan bishop or religious ordinary should encourage experienced and qualified priests and deacons to consider preparing themselves for the apostolate of dea con formation. Religious and lay persons may assist in suitable capacities

theological libraries; live teleconferences or documentation from the teleconferences on Christology, eccle siology, sacramental and moral theology, Mariology, pneumatology; statistical information on diocesan and religious priests and deacons; as well as an email option for updated information on future offerings. 6 BNFPD, no. 19. 7 BNFPD, no. 16. See also nos. 21, 42, 44, 62; DMLPD, nos. 3, 78, 80. 8 BNFPD, no. 19.

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