Deacon Formation Program

 

Archdiocese of Chicago

 

University of Saint Mary of the Lake/Mundelein Seminary

The Basic Norms for the Formation of Permanent Deacons states “… Moreover, in addition to stability of family life, married candidates cannot be admitted (to formation programs) unless ‘their wives not only consent, but also have the Christian moral character and attributes which will neither hinder their husband’s ministry nor be out of keeping with it.’” Paragraph 37

 

The Deacon Formation Program provides opportunities for growth, enrichment and information needed by wives to make such a decision — to ascertain her compatibility with her husband’s diaconal vocation and eventual ministry, and to offer continued formation so that she may give her informed consent to her husband’s participation. In fact, four times during the formation process, wives are required to give consent for their husband’s continued participation in formation: prior to Candidacy, Institution as Reader and Acolyte, and prior to Ordination.

 

What is required of wives during the formation process?

Wives are invited to participate fully during the Aspirancy Path but may choose a ‘Key Event’ path. If their husbands are called to the three-year Candidacy Path, they are given one of three choices: Attend DFP Key Events only; attend DFP Key Events and audit courses; or attend DFP Key Events while concurrently enrolling in the Certificate of Studies tract through the Called and Gifted Program to receive formation in lay ministry. Key Events include some weeknights, Saturdays, retreats and participation in all Rites, practices and Theological Reflection groups.

Wives of Aspirants and Candidates invariably grow and benefit enormously as they accompany their husbands in the formation program. Not only are they nurtured and nourished, as are their husbands, by the intellectual and spiritual development of their faith through various classes and presentations, they also are introduced to the variety and scope of ministries through a number of assignments and at least one internship experience. This not only better prepares them for their husband’s ordination and ministry, but allows them to discover their own gifts and talents as they ponder the ministerial possibilities they see for themselves as lay ministers in the Church.

 It is important to note, however, that wives of deacons are not conferred any special status, rights or privileges to minister in a parish on the basis of their husband’s ordination. The primary role of a deacon’s wife is to provide support of their husband’s ministry.

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If you would like to take the first step of inquiry—please fill out the Pre-Application Form and email your completed form to Administrative Assistant Deacon Jim Cozzo. Jr. at jcozzo@usml.edu. The Director of Formation will contact you directly.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Wives support their husbands and offer their informed consent to the bishop