Quick question about permanent deacons

[muffinmojo]

Hey- I was just wondering how a diocese deals with the parish assignments of deacons. Do they serve ‘terms’ like a priest, or are they ‘attached’ to one parish, out of consideration for their family? I’ve considered the diaconate(when I’m older, of course), and I’ve been trying to find the answer to this everywhere! Thanks for enlightening me

 

[puzzleannie]

depends on the needs of the diocese and the policy of the bishop. the first “round” deacons ordained hear, now at or over retirement age were assigned to their own parish if they wished or at the discretion of the bishop, and most served one parish for most of their careers. then there was a hiatus, and new deacon class will be ordained in 2-3 years, they have been warned the bishop will place them where they are needed not necessarily in their own parishes. simply call and ask the priest in charge of diaconate formation in your diocese.

 

[mansr27]

I have spoken to a priest about it, and he told me that a Deacon is a Parish position. This was a few years ago. I also want to be a Deacon, but I don’t think I am going to wait until retirement age.

I am putting together a 5 year plan where I will be able to reduce my work schedule. In the mean time I am trying to be as involved as I can while stabilizing my family’s finances.

 

[Corki]

Under our old archbishop the home parish of the deacon got first “dibs” on him for an assignment. Not every parish had a need and some pastors didn’t choose to have them.

Our new archbishop has made it statements publically that the deacons will be assigned where ever they are most needed and that a certain portion will be given work outside of parish work (ie hospital and prison chaplains).

 

[puzzleannie]

I have spoken to a priest about it, and he told me that a Deacon is a Parish position. This was a few years ago. I also want to be a Deacon, but I don’t think I am going to wait until retirement age.

I.

you could not wait until retirement age in this diocese, as the program requires the candidate not be over 55 when ordained.

the majority of deacons are employed FT or PT in parishes, or if already retired may serve in a limited capacity with a stipend, or merely on donations for funerals, weddings etc. they do. However there are also deacons serving on diocesan staff positions. Some dioceses have deacons as chaplains to hospitals and prisons, they may teach in schools and colleges, or run charitable programs.

your idea to get other aspects of your life in line, and to become more active in parish life is very sound, as one of the requirements at least here for admission to the formation program is being active in some parish ministry.

 

[plato3]

In our diocese, the deacons have been reminded that they serve the bishop and belong to the whole diocese. However, most of our deacons are serving in their home parish and it helps with the price of gas these days.