How do I know if God is calling me to the diaconate? The gradual discovery of a vocation to the diaconate takes place through ongoing prayer, formation, and discernment. Discernment is the process of discovering God’s will for our lives. It involves a disciplined listening for God in liturgical and private prayer, in conversation with our spouse, family, friends, and spiritual mentors, and in reflection on the movement and direction of our lives.
Discernment to a vocation must also involve the Church. Ultimately it is the local Church, under the leadership of the Archbishop, which calls forth men to the diaconate. The Church’s discernment begins during the initial inquiry and application stage, but is continually tested and confirmed throughout the formation process, as outlined in the timeline below.
If you are interested in beginning a conversation about discernment to the diaconate, please contact us!
For more on discerning the Diaconate, click below to listen to an episode of Archbishop Naumann’s radio show “The Shepherd’s Voice” in which he dialogues with Curtis Keddy, Deacon Candidate and Associate Director of Formation in the Deacon Office, about how the Lord called him and the mystery of this Holy Order of service.
