Formation and Study Program

• The components of the formation program will be based on the document Basic Norms for the Formation of Permanent Deacons - Directory for the Ministry and Life of Permanent Deacon, and include human, spiritual, intellectual and pastoral formation.
• Candidates will choose a spiritual director to assist them in their formation and spiritual development.
• One weekend a month from September to June, the candidates in each year of the program will gather at Providence Renewal Centre to take part in the study and formation program.
• Candidates will be expected to prepare, in advance, for the presentations on Formation weekends. This will include completion of readings and preparation questions assigned by the presenter. A comprehensive examination will be written at the end of each year.
• During the month of June of each of the first three years, the candidates will take part in a discernment process which will include a weekend retreat.
• In the fourth year the candidates will take part in a five-day silent retreat and discernment process before ordination.
• Ordained, permanent deacons are expected to serve as mentors and group leaders in the training of new candidates.
• The spouses of candidates are encouraged, in so far as this is possible, to participate in the Formation and Study Program.

The next group of candidates will begin their Formation and Study program in September, 2008.