Permanent Deacons: Day of Orientation

– August 13, 2025

New Cohort Formation for Men Discerning the Permanent Diaconate

Bishop Luis has authorized the start of Formation for a new cohort of men discerning the vocation to Holy Orders as Permanent Deacons.

The Diocese of Raleigh will host a Day of Orientation on Saturday, September 13, 2025.

Location:
Catholic Center, Room 1A
7200 Stonehenge Dr., Raleigh, NC 27613

Orientation Schedule:

  • First Session: 10:00 AM – 12:00 Noon
  • Second Session: 2:00 PM – 4:00 PM

Registration & Information Sheet

Before attending the orientation, please fill out a General Information Sheet and submit it by email to:
Deacon Felix Saez Jr. – Deacon.Felix.Saez@raldioc.org

Or you may print and mail it to:

Diocese of Raleigh
Permanent Diaconate Office
7200 Stonehenge Dr.
Raleigh, NC 27613

Requirements & Formation

The Formation Program entails six years:

  1. Discerning Year: The first year allows both the applicant and the Church to discern the call to the diaconate.
  2. Formation Years: Five years of academic, spiritual, and pastoral formation, designed to provide competence in specialized Church ministry.

The program integrates theory and practice, emphasizing field education, supervised ministry assignments, and the application of practical skills to service in the Church.

Candidates are expected to:

  • Participate actively in classes and group discussions
  • Share faith and ministry experiences openly
  • Communicate knowledge effectively, both orally and in writing

Requirements for Applicants

Applicants must:

  • Be a Roman Catholic of sound moral character, mature in faith, with a developed prayer life and sense of vocation
  • Be a Catholic for at least 5 years (if received through RCIA)
  • Be in a stable marriage for at least 5 years (if married)
  • Have a high school education (college preferred) and ability to learn in a structured environment
  • Be a resident of the Diocese of Raleigh for at least 5 years
  • Complete Safe Environment training and background check
  • Be aged 35–60 at program entry
  • Be in good physical and mental health
  • Demonstrate stability in employment and family life
  • Exhibit a healthy self-image and clear identity
  • Already serve in a parish ministry, preferably in a leadership capacity
  • Be recognized as a person of prayer, compassion, and service by his pastor
  • Have the enthusiastic support of his family if married
  • Consider child care needs if children under 12 are in the household