Diaconal Formation

Since the restoration of the permanent diaconate to the hierarchy of sacred orders by the Second Vatican Council (1962-65), growth in the diaconate has surged in the United States and worldwide. In 2010, the Center was established to focus on the increasing intellectual formation needs of the permanent diaconate, by providing Christ-centered academic programs to prepare students to be heralds of the Gospel and servants and leaders of the New Evangelization.

Our unique and innovative Center addresses the intellectual norms set forth in the National Directory for the Formation, Ministry, and Life of Permanent Deacons in the United States by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, preparing men for leadership roles as ordained ministers in their local parishes, diocese institutions and the Universal Church. Students acquire the knowledge and skills to carry out the deacon's ministry of word, liturgy and charity.