By Deacon John McGregor
The formation process for men interested in the permanent diaconate is both rigorous and rewarding. Let’s begin by looking at the inquiry and application processes.

Inquiry sessions are scheduled in all the deaneries in our diocese. At the inquiry sessions the participant will hear about the ministry of the permanent diaconate, the formation process, and be given an opportunity to ask questions. The participant will be asked to complete a short inquirer’s form, so we have some basic information about the party and the party’s association with the church. Then in May, the inquirer may request an application, which must be completed by the end of July. The application includes an extensive questionnaire about the perspective candidate’s relationship with the church, with Christ, with his family, etc. In addition, the inquirer will be asked to write three essays – an autobiography, another describing his spiritual journey, and another, outlining why the perspective candidate believes he is called to serve as a deacon. His wife will also be asked to complete part of the application form and to write a letter of support for the application.
In addition to the application, the perspective diaconate candidate will be required to submit the results of a physical examination, proof of reception of the sacrament of baptism, holy communion and confirmation. If married, the applicant must show that he is married “in the church.” He will also be asked to submit three letters of recommendation, and request a letter of recommendation from his pastor, mailed directly to the director of the permanent diaconate. Once a completed application package is received, no later than July 31, 2025, the applicant and his spouse will interview with a deacon and his spouse, and a priest. After these interviews, the applicant will be required to take a psychological evaluation. Ultimately, the final interview is with the bishop and the deacon vocations board. If accepted, aspirancy would begin in January 2026.
Aspirancy is a one-year period of discernment, prior to entering formation. During phase one, the aspirant will learn more about the ministry of the deacon, prayer, discernment and other introductory topics. Aspirants meet once a month on Saturdays, from January through June during this first phase of aspirancy. Phase two begins in September with a prerequisite theology course on divine revelation. Again, throughout Phase two, meetings are on Saturdays only. At the end of the aspirancy period, the aspirant will once again be interviewed to determine if he is able and willing to move into the formation program.
Those accepted into candidacy would begin the formation process in January 2027. During the four years of formation, candidates are required to meet one weekend a month from Friday evening to Sunday midday. During this period, the candidate will study theology at a graduate level, receive formation in spirituality and take part in practicums. The candidate is also expected to maintain an active ministry in his parish, working with his pastor as a means to developing his pastoral ministry skills. At the end of the formation process, candidates may petition the bishop for ordination. Those who successfully complete the course work must also take and pass a comprehensive written exam. Those who complete all the requirements will receive a Master of Theological Studies degree from Spring Hill College.

The diaconal formation process is both rigorous and rewarding. Those who complete the program can be confident in their abilities to serve the church in the diaconal ministries of Word, liturgy and charity. They will be formed according to the four pillars of formation for priests and deacons which seeks to develop the whole person: human, intellectual, spiritual and pastoral. While to some, the program may seem too demanding, but Christ and his church deserve nothing less than the best formation program we can offer.

Those interested in learning more about the permanent diaconate are encouraged to contact Deacon John McGregor (john.mcgregor@jacksondiocese.org) and attend one of the inquiry sessions planned in your area.