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

NDPD 79

National Directory for Permanent Deacons

it also helps to prepare him for the possibility of living celibate chastity should his wife predecease him. Tragically, some deacons who were mar ried at the time of ordination only begin to face the issues involved with celibacy upon the death of their wives. As difficult as this process is, all deacons need to appreciate the impact celibacy can have on their lives and ministry. The Widowed Deacon 79 The death of a married deacon’s wife is a “particular moment in life which calls for faith and Christian hope.” 74 The death of the wife of a married deacon introduces a new reality into the daily routine of his family and ministry. Charity should be extended to the widowed dea con as he assesses and accepts his new personal circumstances, so he will not neglect his primary duty as father to his children or any new needs his family might have. 75 As required, a widowed deacon should be helped to seek professional counsel, and he is always encouraged to address the challenges he faces during the bereavement process with his spiritual director. Further, the fraternal closeness of his diocesan bishop, the priests with whom he ministers, and the diaconal com munity should offer comfort and reassurance in this difficult moment in his life. 76 “In particular, the widowed deacon should be supported in living perfect and perpetual continence. He should be helped to understand the profound ecclesial reasons which preclude his remar riage (1 Tm 3:12), in accordance with the constant discipline of the Church in the East and West. This can be achieved through an intensi fication of one’s dedication to others for the love of God in the minis try. In such cases the fraternal assistance of other ministers, of the faith ful and of the bishop can be most comforting to widowed deacons.” 77

74 75 76 77

DMLPD, no. 62. DMLPD, no. 62. DMLPD, no. 62. DMLPD, no. 62.

42