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The diaconate is ordained ministry.
The deacon is ordained to serve the bishop in ministries of liturgy, Word and charity. These ministries often take the deacon outside the boundaries of the local parish: prisons, jails, crisis centers, and juvenile centers, for example. However, the deacon may serve the local parish as well. In many cases the deacon does both.
Deacons officiate at baptisms, witness weddings, preside at funeral vigils and funerals. Deacons may also preach.
In accord with Canon Law, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops establishes the minimum age for ordination to the diaconate at 35. Maximum age for ordination is at the discretion of the diocesan bishop.
The program for diaconate formation in the Diocese of Gary is 6 years. This 6-year span includes the Lay Ecclesial Ministry Program, a year of discernment and an additional 2 years of formation. A man must successfully complete the Lay Ecclesial Ministry Program before he can be considered for diaconate.
| Year 1 |
Year 2 |
Year 3 |
Year 4 |
Year 5 |
Year 6 |
| Lay Ministry |
Lay Ministry |
Lay Ministry & Diaconate Discernment |
Lay Ministry & 1st Year Diaconate |
Diaconate |
Diaconate |
Men interested in the diaconate should contact:
Deacon Mark Plaiss
Director, Diaconate Formation
Pastoral Center
9292 Broadway
Merrillville, IN 46410-7088
219-769-9292 x259
mplaiss@dcgary.org
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Office of Diaconate Formation Resources:
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