The Secretariat of Clergy, Consecrated Life and Vocations supports the activities of the bishops' Committee in the restoration of the Diaconate and the development of diaconal ministry. It also assists and coordinates the development of diaconal formation programs on the diocesan and national levels. The secretariat assists the general secretary of the USCCB in responding to all matters concerning the ministry of deacons in the Church in the United States. It provides services and liaison support to national organizations and directors of diocesan diaconate offices.
Read the online spanish version of the National Directory.
National Directory for the Formation, Life and Ministry of Permanent Deacons in the United States
This new document, promulgated on 26 December 2004, presents the latest teaching of the bishops of the United States on the ordained ministry of Deacons. It includes a doctrinal overview of the sacramentality of the diaconate, insights into the ministry and life of deacons, and particular law related to the diaconate in the United States. It also provides extensive direction on the comprehensive formation of candidates for ordination as well as ongoing formation of deacons following ordination. The document may be purchased by clicking on the title above or on the image to the left;
it may also be read online by clicking here.
"Note on the Minister of the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick"
Released by Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith on 11 February 2005, this "Note" reiterates the doctrine of the Church with regard to the minister of this sacrament. In addition to the Note itself is a brief official Commentary from the Congregation providing its rationale for the Note. It may be read online by clicking on the title above or on the image to the left.
VIDEO: "Deacons - Ministers of Justice and Charity
This video is a useful companion to the new video on the wives of deacons, offered below. Produced in 1998, this 22-minute video surveys the nature and ministry of deacons, particularly their responsibilities for social justice and charity. It may be ordered by clicking on the title above or the image to the left.