Diaconate

Ministries   /   Diaconate

Mission Statement

We, the deacons of the Diocese of Orange, are humble instruments called to joyfully serve those in need by bringing God’s love through our compassionate presence.

General Description

The Office of the Diaconate oversees the permanent diaconate within the Diocese of Orange, including the development and facilitation of formation plus the oversight of the life and ministry of deacons and their wives and families.

Who We Serve

  • Deacons, their wives and families
  • Those interested in joining or discerning a call to the diaconate
  • Those in formation and their wives

What We Provide

  • Discernment of a vocation to the diaconate
  • Six-month period of selection and discernment for men nominated by their pastors
  • Five years of pre-ordination formation in the following dimensions: intellectual, pastoral, spiritual and human
  • Five years of post-ordination formation
  • Ongoing education and formation for deacons and wives
  • Parish assignments or change of status
  • Ministry reviews by deacon personnel board
  • Spiritual and community events for diaconate community

Discerning A Call to the Diaconate

Catholic men who feel called to discern a vocation to the diaconate are invited to review the entry criteria below and fill out the inquiry form by clicking here. Currently, the Diocese of Orange is accepting inquiries from Catholic men who meet the following criteria:

  • Is committed to and lives out of Gospel values
  • Has shown leadership qualities in parish/diocesan ministry for the past five years
  • Is identified by his parish community as a person of service, values and justice
  • If married, is in a stable and happy marriage for at least 7 years, and whose wife and children support him in pursuing the diaconate
  • If not married, is willing to commit to celibacy
  • Is no younger than 30 and no older than 55 years to enter the discernment and formation program
  • Is capable of giving serious attention and time to theological study, spiritual formation and ministry
  • High school diploma or equivalency is mandatory
  • Has a stable work history
  • Has a positive attitude towards the Church and is flexible in adapting to the future Church
  • Is formally presented for the diaconate by his pastor who will see that he is mentored during the five years of formation
  • Is financially stable including good credit, health insurance, and a retirement plan

Diaconate Community Portal

To log-in to the Deacon Portal, click here.

Donations and Reimbursements

To make a donation or a reimbursement, please click here.

Leadership