FORMATION AND TRAINING

The Archdiocese of Baltimore conducts regular information sessions around the archdiocese for men who are interested in finding out more about the diaconate.  If you feel you are being called to pursue this vocation and would like more information, please contact the Office of Clergy Personnel at 410-547-5427.

Deacon Formation Program Aspirancy & Candidacy - Class of 2013 Recruitment Brochure

Admission Requirements*

To become a deacon, a potential candidate must satisfy the following basic requirements:

1. Be a Baptized man who is Confirmed;
2. Be a Roman Catholic for a minimum of six years;
3. Be an U.S. citizen or a legal, permanent resident at the time of admission to the program, with a working knowledge of English;
4. Be at least 32 years of age at the time of admission to the program;
5. Be less than 60 years of age at the time of ordination; enjoy good physical and mental health with no condition that would impede diaconal ministry; have successfully completed high school; and be able to handle college-level course work;
6. Possess financial security with a history of steady employment; if working, be in a position that does not require frequent travel or reassignment;
7. Be a registered parishioner within the Archdiocese of Baltimore;
8. Possess stability in your life regarding career, family relationships, etc.;
9. If married, live in a stable and valid marriage of at least six years, enjoy the full support of his spouse, and become celibate should his wife precede him in death;
10. If single, enjoy a stable settled life with a history of healthy relationships and understand the implications of the charism of celibacy;
11. Enjoy with his family a good reputation within the community;
12. Be able to give the time required for study and service without detriment to his family;
13. Complete the CORE Curriculum of the Church Leadership Institute (CLI) in addition to registering in one of the Basic Ministry Tracks. (For more information regarding CLI, call 410-547-5470.)
14. Participate and successfully complete the Aspirancy Period, which typically includes eight days of reflection on such topics as “Personal Discernment,” “Elements of Being Chosen,” “Dimensions of Formation,” and “Presentations by Deacons and Wives”;
15. Be willing and able to make a life-long commitment to serve the Church of Baltimore as determined by the Archbishop of Baltimore;
16. Be willing to promise obedience to the Archbishop of Baltimore and to accept any pastoral assignment that the Archbishop may give him;
17. Be presently active in the Church and recognized and accepted as a leader within the community;
18. Be highly recommended by those who have worked with him in ministry and attest to his potential to be an ordained minister in the Church.

* The Deacon Formation Team will consider equivalencies or exceptions for these requirements.