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

NDPD

The Ministry and Life of Deacons

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Clerical Attire 94 The Code of Canon Law does not oblige permanent deacons to wear an ecclesiastical garb. 103 Further, because they are prominent and active in secular professions and society, the USCCB specifies that permanent deacons should resemble the lay faithful in dress and matters of lifestyle. Each diocesan bishop should, however, determine and promulgate any exceptions to this law, as well as specify the appropriate clerical attire if it is to be worn. Liturgy of the Hours 95 Permanent deacons in the United States of America are required to include as part of their daily prayer those parts of the Liturgy of the Hours known as Morning and Evening Prayer. 104 Permanent deacons are obliged to pray for the universal Church. Whenever possible, they should lead these prayers with the community to whom they have been assigned to minister. Participation in Political Office 96 A deacon may not present his name for election to any public office or in any other general election, or accept a nomination or an appointment to public office, without the prior written permission of the diocesan bishop. 105 A deacon may not actively and publicly participate in another’s political campaign without the prior written permission of the diocesan bishop. identification of the diaconate with the priesthood, rather than contributing to the independence and integrity of the Order of Deacon in itself. The title ‘Deacon’ would, of course, be appropriate.” Congrega tion for Catholic Education and the Congregation for the Clergy, Joint Study of the US Draft Document–The National Directory for the Formation, Ministry and Life of Permanent Deacons in the United States , Prot. No. 78/2000 (March 4, 2002). 103 CIC, c. 288. 104 CIC, c. 276 §2 3°. 105 DMLPD, no. 13. See CIC, cc. 285 §3, 288. The rationale is that the identity of a political candidate becomes well known, and any investigation regarding background or reputation of the deacon should be the responsibility of ecclesial authorities so as to avoid any undue or unwarranted publicity in the public media. In making his determination to grant written permission, the bishop should investigate the background of the deacon, including his many social relationships (e.g., memberships in clubs, organizations) so that nothing would become an embarrassment to the Church. The bishop should investigate the credit rating of the deacon so that there is no question of unreasonable indebtedness. He also should be concerned about fundraising that the deacon, as a political candidate, will have to initiate, as well as improper reflections that might occur by associating the deacon, as a political candidate, with a particular party and its platform.

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