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Diaconal Formation
What is the diaconate?
The diaconate dates to the time of the Apostles. The Apostles
chose seven men "acknowledged to be deeply spiritual and
prudent," and ordained them by the laying on of hands (Acts
6:1-11). These men were empowered explicitly to provide for
the distribution of food among the growing church membership.
From the beginning, the primary purpose of the diaconate was a
ministry of service. The word deacon derives from the Greek
word, “diakonia,” which means service.
The “Acts of the Apostles” clearly shows the first seven
deacons spreading and building the early church. The diaconate
is a ministry of service.
Who can become a deacon?
Applicants must be Byzantine Catholic males 35 years of age or
older, in a stable marriage of at least five years or
committed to a life of celibacy, with job stability or
retired, enjoying the moral, physical and psychological
qualities in harmony with receiving a sacred order, be a
member and actively involved in the local Byzantine Catholic
parish programs and have the recommendation of their pastor
and parish pastoral council.
What does a deacon in the Eparchy of Parma do?
The deacon assists the eparchial bishop in preaching the Word
of God, in discovering and responding to needs of charity, and
in celebrating the Divine Services.
In the local parish, the deacon assists in the Divine
Services, assists in baptismal and marriage preparation, takes
holy Communion to the sick and confined, makes hospital
visits, works in parish youth programs, teaches Eastern
Christian Formation sessions, works in various parish
programs, and ministers in other areas of his expertise under
the direction of his parish priest.
What is diaconal formation?
The Diaconal Program encompasses the spiritual, academic and
ministerial formation of the candidate in an attempt to
nourish and develop the whole man.
What does spiritual formation mean?
Through spiritual formation the diaconal student is totally
immersed into the diaconate; this is not something to be put
on as needed. Experiences are provided during the discernment
process. A diaconal student will have a personal spiritual
director who walks with the candidate along his faith journey
and helps to guide his discernment.
Is it a lot of school work?
Most students attend the diaconal preparation program of the
Byzantine Catholic Seminary of SS. Cyril and Methodius in
Pittsburgh. This is comprised of four years of two week
intense study each summer with assignments throughout each
year. Only in very special circumstances are variances to this
program made. In addition, the candidate meets with selected
members of the eparchy for supplemental theological and
liturgical instruction as is appropriate and necessary for his
full formation.
What is ministerial formation?
A diaconal candidate works with his pastor and the eparchial
staff in developing his pastoral skills, acquiring ministerial
experience and receiving specialized liturgical formation. |
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