What are the requirements to become a deacon?
The deacon is called personally and ecclesially to serve after the manner of Jesus. He is first and foremost a Christian man in his usual employment and lifestyle, trained and formed by additional study and prayer for a special ministry to the community as an ordained minister. Each diocesan diaconate office sets its own criteria for suitable deacon candidates. Here are some of the more common considerations: • Age: At least thirty-five at time of ordination. • Status: A Roman Catholic, married or single, of sound moral character, mature faith and possessing a sense of vocation to service. • Family: If married, a partner in a stable marriage for several years, who has the expressed consent and support of his wife, and whose children are of such an age and adjustment as not to be unduly affected by their father’s pursuit of a life that involves special apostolic commitments. • Natural Gifts: Demonstrates the basic potential to develop the ministerial skills of relating to people, speaki
