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...a distinct program that addresses specifically the mission and identity of diaconal ministry while educating men for the three-fold ministry of service to the Word, Liturgy and Charity. |
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Recent Press Releases
February 2012
Year 1 Candidates update Spiritual Autobiography
Mundelein, Il— Year 1 candidates continue to grow spiritually in many diverse ways. This growth benefits the individual and the Church. Growth is tracked through personal assessments including an “Ongoing” spiritual autobiography that includes devotional and sacramental life, as well as obligatory (clergy) prayer and spiritual health. The Director of Spiritual Formation affirms, challenges and provides helpful suggestions to all participants. The candidate’s personal spiritual director is also a valuable resource for personal spiritual growth in relation to the affirmations and challenges presented.
January 2012
2012 Pope Gregory the Great Certificate of Merit
Mundelein, Il—Year 3 Candidate Daniel Moore received a certificate of merit for outstanding articulation and integration of the Service to Liturgy internship of the Archdiocese of Chicago Institute for Diaconal Studies. Candidate Moore will serve as the Deacon of the Eucharist at ordination in May 2012. December 2011
Winter Quarter has begun
Mundelein, Il—The winter quarter has begun and all aspirants and candidates ask for prayers as they begin a new round of academic and formation activity. Check out what they are accomplishing on page 9 of the December issue of DFP Journal (click on Monthly Newsletter button to left).
November 2011
Field education and parish internship
Mundelein, Il—Year 1 candidates are engaged in a Service to the Word field education experience throughout the entire year. During this experience, candidates interview parish leaders in various ministries and also develop, with the support of the pastor, a potential new ministry for future implementation. Year 2 Candidates are engaged in a year-long Service to Liturgy internship which provides valuable hands-on training and observation in many areas of diaconal ministry including giving Mass reflections, leadership at wake services, diaconal protocol for baptisms and weddings and much more.
Spiritual directors will receive a new handbook
Mundelein, Il—Spiritual directors for all aspirants and candidates in Deacon Formation (English) of the Archdiocese of Chicago are vetted through a deliberate process by the program and approved and appointed by the archbishop. Fr. Dennis Stafford, Director of Spiritual Formation, recently completed a new handbook for spiritual directors. It includes many diverse categories including a precise vision and philosophy of the unique relationship and extraordinary circumstance of spiritual direction for candidates for the Sacrament of Holy Orders. Also included are sections on the development of conscience, moral decision-making and transparent lifestyle of candidates and permanent deacons.
October 2011
Information sessions are a great hit
Mundelein, Il—The Deacon Formation Program (English) of the Archdiocese of Chicago offers four (4) opportunities throughout the year for men to gather: to pray, dialogue and ask the important questions on their mind about a potential vocation to the permanent diaconate. The sessions gather at the Cardinal Stritch Retreat House located on the campus of the University of Saint Mary of the Lake/Mundelein Seminary in Mundelein, Illinois (Route 173 just west of Butterfield Road). 2011-2012 schedule: · Thursday, September 15, 2011—7:30 P.M. · Wednesday, October 19, 2011– 7:30 P.M. · Sunday, November 20, 2011– 12:00 noon (Mass) · Sunday, February 19, 2012 12:00 noon (Mass)
September 2011
New formation year begins
Mundelein, Il—A new academic and formation year began with the Mass of the Holy Spirit on Sunday, August 28, 2011 at the Chapel of the Immaculate Conception located on the campus of the University of Saint Mary of the Lake/Mundelein Seminary (USML) in Mundelein, Illinois. Fr. Dennis Stafford, Director of Spiritual Formation, was the principal celebrant and homilist. Fr. Thomas Baima, Vice-Rector for Academic Affairs at USML concelebrated and welcomed the aspirants, candidates, wives and mentors to the campus and a new formation year. Classes and formation activities begin Tuesday, September 6, 2011. Year 2 candidates will engage a retreat on September 10 & 11 with Fr. Stafford as Retreat Master in direct preparation for the Institution of Acolyte on Sunday, September 11, 2011. Please keep all of the aspirants, candidates and wives in your prayers.
July/August 2011
Deacon Formation Program administrator’s profiles
Mundelein, Il—The administrators of the Deacon Formation Program of the Archdiocese of Chicago have varied and distinguished backgrounds that provide professional assistance, guidance and expertise to the four primary dimensions of formation—human, intellectual, spiritual and pastoral. Check out the historical backgrounds of Deacon Bob Puhala, Director of Formation, Ms. Anne Chrzan, Associate Director, and Fr. Dennis Stafford, Director of Spiritual Formation, on the program’s ‘Contacts’ web page at www.usml.edu.
June 2011
Congratulations
Mundelein, Il—Twelve men were ordained permanent deacons on Sunday, May 15 at Holy Name Cathedral. Please keep these men and their families in your prayers and welcome them heartily into the diaconate community. They are well-trained and anxious to begin ministry. John Baier - Immaculate Conception, Highland Park Michael Ciciura – SS. Cyril & Methodius, Lemont Martin Enciso – Good Shepherd, Chicago William Gibbons – St. Patrick, Wadsworth Joseph Gonzalez – St. Germaine, Oak Lawn Ivan Lazcano – St. Stephen Protomartyr, Des Plaines Mark Phelan – Most Holy Redeemer, Evergreen Park Edward Podgorski – St. Monica, Chicago Juan Ponce de Leon – St. William, Chicago James Thompson – St. Mary of the Woods, Chicago Joseph Yannotta – St. Edna, Arlington Heights Gregory Zeifert – St. Bede, Ingleside
Aspirants prepare for the Admission & Scrutinies Board
Mundelein, Il—Aspirants (Cohort 2014) and their wives are winding down the formation year. An integrating seminar will help fortify all they have learned this year. A retreat will prayerfully prepare the men and their wives for upcoming transitions and their meeting with the Admission & Scrutinies Board who provide valuable assistance and insight regarding moving forward in formation. The aspirants will then begin their summer field education in Ministry to Charity.
Aspirancy formation calendar 2011-2012 Mundelein, Il—The aspirancy calendar for next year is available for viewing. Please refer to the ‘Links’ page (accessible from the buttons at left) and click on ‘Aspirancy Path.’
May 2011
Convocation/Ordination Mundelein, Il—Year three candidates in the ordination path are concluding the spring quarter and preparing for convocation to receive a certificate of studies on May 7. The potential ordinandi participated in the Call to Orders and professed the Oath of Fidelity at their ordination retreat. Ordination is Sunday, May 15 at Holy Name Cathedral. Please keep these men and their families in your prayers and welcome them heartily into the diaconate community. They are well-trained and anxious to begin ministry.
April 2011
Ordination Retreat / Convocation Mundelein, Il—Year three candidates in the ordination path are concluding the spring quarter during April and preparing for convocation to receive a certificate of studies on May 7. Year 3 candidates also attend an ordination retreat led by Fr. Michael Ahlstrom, Vicar for the Diaconate Community, from April 6 - 10th where they – and their wives - will also dialogue with Francis Cardinal George. The potential ordinandi also participate in the Call to Orders and profess the Oath of Fidelity at the retreat.
March 2011
Deacon Formation develops mission statement
Mundelein, Il—At the outset of formation year 2010-2011 the Deacon Formation Program (DFP) of the Archdiocese of Chicago developed a mission statement that introduces the DFP catalog. “The primary mission of the Deacon Formation Program (DFP) at the University of Saint Mary of the Lake / Mundelein Seminary is to prepare men to be deacons—icons of Christ the Servant, emissaries of the bishop and servant-leaders—through a distinctive formation process for ministry in the Archdiocese of Chicago. It does so by offering a distinct program that addresses specifically the mission and identity of diaconal ministry in the Human, Intellectual, Spiritual and Pastoral dimensions of formation while educating men for the three-fold ministry of service to the Word, Liturgy and Charity.”
February 2011
Aspirants begin first academic endeavor
Mundelein, Il—The first year in the Deacon Formation Program is known as aspirancy, a year of formal vocation discernment. It is a time for spiritual growth and maturation that includes formation activity that delves into the spirituality of the Church and the prayer life of ordained clergy. Since the majority of men entering the program are married, the strengthening of Catholic marriage is also highlighted. There are also introductions into the study of theology including church history, ecclesiology, Christology, Scripture and moral theology. Aspirants get their first taste of academics in February when they engage a 20-hour course on the Catechism (Deacon Formation Program academic offerings follow a 10-week quarter system) with additional on-line instruction. Catechism—112 is an intensive and extensive review of the Catholic Catechism, per the National Directory, paragraph 196. Please pray for the aspirants as they engage this first experience with academics.
Winter quarter ends February 15, 2011
Mundelein, Il—The Deacon Formation Program of the Archdiocese of Chicago operates on a quarter system that affords natural breaks for candidates to rest and relax. Winter quarter ends on February 15, 2011. Please pray for the success of all candidates as they prepare for quarter exams.
January 2011
A new year with new vigor and energy
Mundelein, Il—The Deacon Formation Program extends its heartfelt thanks to all who support the program. A new year begins though the formation year is at its midpoint as we continue with the winter quarter. Please pray for all in formation and their families. They are hard at work and they take time to pray for all of you. The hope of the program and its participants is to one day faithfully and capably serve in the agencies and parishes of the Archdiocese of Chicago.
December 2010
Exploring the Permanent Diaconate has had eighteen inquirers to date
Mundelein, Il—Deacon Bob Puhala and Fr. Dennis Stafford have conducted two sessions of “Exploring the Permanent Diaconate’ thus far this formation year. To date—eighteen inquirers and their wives have enthusiastically participated and with the help of their pastors are praying over the potential of joining the program next year. Please keep these families in your prayers!
Sponsoring pastors are in the process of completing final evaluations for Year III candidates
Mundelein, Il—Year III candidates are preparing to meet with the Admission & Scrutinies Board in early February. Affirmation from the board sends these candidates into their final stage of preparation for potential ordination —the ordination path. Pastors are aiding the evaluative process currently by completing final evaluations of their candidates.
November 2010
Year 2 candidates in Deacon Formation prayerfully reflect on the role of Acolyte
Mundellein, Il—On Saturday, October 23 and Sunday, October 24, 2010, the Year 2 candidates of the Deacon Formation Program in the Archdiocese of Chicago spent time together in retreat reflecting on the role of Acolyte. The retreat master was Fr. Dennis J. Stafford, the Director of Spiritual formation. Three main topics were explored: solitude, humility and the joy of service. The Friday evening preceding the retreat provided opportunity for the families of the candidates to gather in their homes to pray the rosary, reflect on the journey to acolyte for their husband and father, and offer a family blessing on the candidate as he left for the formal retreat.
“The men do need time alone and as a cohort in their immediate preparation for their role as acolytes. But family support and affirmation are crucial for the gentlemen as they make the leap of faith into this new element of their formation and ministry,” said Fr. Stafford.
The retreat concluded on Sunday afternoon with the Institution of Acolyte in the Chapel of the Immaculate Conception at the University of Saint Mary of the Lake/Mundelein Seminary. Bishop Raymond Goedert was the principal celebrant.
Fall academic quarter to conclude on November 13
Mundelein, Il—The Deacon Formation Program of the Archdiocese of Chicago instituted a new calendar of formation in 2010 that conforms to the priestly formation calendar at the University of Saint Mary of the Lake/Mundelein Seminary. Though academics and formation are unique and separate to each program, the quarter system for academics was adopted by permanent deacon formation. This system allows for natural breaks for candidates to seek respite. The 2010 Fall Quarter concludes on November 13.
Application process for admission to the Deacon Formation Program is continually presented to all pastors
Mundelein, Il—The Deacon Formation Program of the Archdiocese of Chicago has ramped up its marketing and recruitment efforts and now present to pastors bi-monthly the protocol and process for application. In the archdiocese, only pastors may request application forms for potential aspirants they wish to sponsor. Process of admission to the program may begin at any time during the calendar year (rolling, ongoing admission) but application deadline for a given formation year is May 1.
October 2010
Deacon Formation Program launches new mode of communication for wives of candidates
Mundelein, Il—A new and exciting mode of communication for the wives of candidates in the Deacon Formation Program in the Archdiocese of Chicago was introduced in early October. The new chat-room (via Moodle) now offers wives the opportunity to both learn and share important elements of Christian faith. The first shared topic inquired about ‘saints’ in our upbringing and family traditions. Upcoming topics will include reflections on the feasts of All Saints and All Souls days in the Catholic Christian Tradition.
September 2010
Deacon Formation issues a new catalog of course offerings
Mundelein, Il—The Deacon Formation Program of the Archdiocese of Chicago recently completed and issued an updated course catalog that offers a history, mission statement, admission guidelines, outline of formational parameters and a significant explanation of course offerings. The Catalog is available to view by clicking any of the various links titled Catalog on its web site.
Retreats are one of many highlights of diaconal formation
Mundelein, Il—Taking time for nurturing a relationship with Jesus Christ is essential to diaconal formation. The normative timeline for preparation for diaconal ministry is four-years of academics and specific formation as mandated by the National Directory for the Formation, Ministry, and Life of Permanent Deacons in the United States (USCCB 2005). [The spiritual dimension of this path happens through the candidate’s meeting regularly with his spiritual director and those responsible for formation. The goals are for the candidate to increase in holiness; to deepen his prayer life through the Eucharist, the Sacrament of Penance, the Liturgy of the Hours, and devotions; and to acquaint himself with the Catholic spiritual tradition reflected in Classic and modern spiritual writings. (Norms 216, 217)] “It is important to stress that accomplishing the norms for the spiritual dimension of formation is an on-going process. But the retreat structure of the Deacon Formation Program highlights each of the essential elements. Beyond the annual aspirancy and candidate retreats, all candidates and wives also attend and annual Couples’ Retreat where family life is emphasized in relation to service to the Church,” said Fr. Dennis Stafford, Director of Spiritual Formation. Stafford noted that aspirants receive a retreat experience that focuses on formal vocational discernment while retreats during the candidacy years focus on specific ministries those in formation are obligated to perform: Institution of Reader in Year 1, Institution of Acolyte in Year 2 and an ordination retreat during the ordination path (final six months) of Year 3.
August 2010
Master instructor provides distinct value to candidates
Mundelein, Il— Candidates/students preparing for reception of the Sacrament of Holy Orders at the permanent diaconate level are mandated to receive distinct academic instruction pertinent to their diaconal role in many key subject areas including Sacraments, Scripture, Special Moral, Ecclesiology and Christology. The Deacon Formation Program (DFP) of the Archdiocese of Chicago believes that gathering all candidates within a particular year of formation for master instruction in those subjects not only creates an environment conducive to increased learning in diaconal identity, it also provides opportunities for class interaction and unity. “When students with a common identity are permitted to discern, question and formulate theological understanding emblematic of their particular and distinct calling, vocational dialogue and specific skill level achievement grow tremendously,” said Fr. Dennis Stafford, Director of Spiritual Formation. “This is true for students on a path toward priestly formation, diaconal formation or a lay minister tract.” Since 2006, the DFP has been gradually transitioning to compliance with the mandates issued by the USCCB’s National Directory for the Formation, Ministry, and Life of Permanent Deacons in the United States (USCCB 2005). Previously, a portion of the DFP academic tract consisting of eight key courses was presented at three locations with three different instructors. The program will institute in September 2010 a stand-alone program where diaconal candidates will now meet together as a unit for academics and formation with the continuity of a 10-week quarter system. This new model allows for a new sense of camaraderie and enhanced learning where the distinct role and identity of the deacon is strengthened. The new model partners with the DePaul-O’Hare campus located at 8770 West Bryn Mawr in Chicago for central ease of access within the archdiocese. “The ’Master Instructor’ model which brings candidates all together to one location provides new economies of scale and also cost efficiency,” said Stafford. “The 10-week quarter system also now allows for natural breaks to occur during the formation year.” Wives of deacon candidates continue to play a vital role in their husbands’ formation journey. From required attendance at key events—that include everything from DFP liturgies and rites, participation in monthly theological reflection groups, couples’ retreats, formation sessions that dialogue about marriage, family and formation, and personal spiritual direction—to a specially-designed three-part program that gathers wives of candidates from all years of formation to dialogue about specific joys and challenges, wives help their husbands discern their call to ordained ministry. Wives also are required to give their informed consent for their husbands’ continuation in the formation program at every benchmark in the journey. “An important and advantageous element that should not be overlooked is that - beyond the Key Event obligation - wives continue to have the option of accompanying their husbands by auditing many of his academic courses and formation sessions or enrolling in the archdiocesan Called & Gifted Program which provides formation for lay ministers,“ said Deacon Bob Puhala, Director of Formation. Anne Chrzan, Associate Director, added, “Wives are elemental and pivotal in their husband’s preparation. They are truly a catalyst to successful discernment and completion of the various elements of the program by their husbands. And, the DFP encourages and invites all wives to participate in the program at the highest level that their busy lifestyles allow.” The DFP noted that approximately 20% of wives accompany their husbands at a heightened level and 80% choose the Key Event path.
July 2010
Congratulations to the newly ordained permanent deacons
Chicago—Fifteen men joined the largest U.S. diaconate community when Cardinal George ordained them permanent deacons May 23 at Holy Name Cathedral. The newly ordained deacons completed a four-year program at the University of St. Mary of the Lake/Mundelein Seminary that included classes in theology, pastoral ministry, spiritual formation and communication and collaboration. More than 95 percent of the archdiocese’s deacons are married with families and most are also engaged in outside occupations. They are clergy, along with priests and bishops. The ministries that deacons perform include the teaching mission of the church, caring for the poor, performing baptisms and marriages, conducting funeral liturgies, presiding at wake services and assisting the priest at Mass by proclaiming the Gospel, preaching, leading intercessions, preparing the altar and intoning the dismissal. The new deacons and their wives are: ■ Thomas and Pamela Adams, St. Patrick Parish, Wadsworth. Adams, 56, is a financial analyst. The Adamses have five children: Emily 31; Mary, 30; Douglas, 28; Sarah, 27; and William 25. After ordination, Adams said he plans to focus on adult religious education, serving the poor of the local community through Zion Faith Food Pantry and exploring the creation of a potential outreach to children of the poor who need tutoring. ■ Gregory and Deborah Beeber, St. Edna Parish, Arlington Heights. Beeber, 45, works as chief engineer for Parker Hannifin Corp. The Beebers have three children: Austin, 17; Travis, 14; and Cody, 10. Several years ago, the Beebers started a puppet ministry at St. Edna and Gregory said “one of our main focuses will be in continuing this ministry. We also plan on taking the puppet shows and ministry to other parishes throughout the archdiocese after ordination.” The couple’s long-term plans are to organize a tutoring program for middle school and high school aged kids in the local community who cannot otherwise afford this assistance. ■ Robert and Barbara Cislo, St. Linus Parish, Oak Lawn. Cislo, 36, teaches theology at Mother McAuley High School. The Cislos have two children Gianna, 2, and Bobby, 6 months. Cislo said he planned to be involved with baptisms and baptismal preparation. ■ William and Sally Doerr, St. Lawrence O’Toole Parish, Matteson. Doerr, 50, works as a purchasing manager. The couple has three children: Ben, 23; Dan, 20; and Pete, 18. Following ordination, Doerr said he plans on being involved with baptismal preparation, RCIA and PADS. ■ Guy and Cindy Grabiec, St. Damian Parish, Oak Forest. Grabiec, 49, works as an automotive repair shop manager. The Grabiecs have three children: Jason, 26; Corey, 23; and Jenna, 21. Grabiec said he would like to work in family ministry, particularly gang violence. ■ Gerald Keenan and Katherine Janega , Sacred Heart Parish, Winnetka. Keenan, 57, works as a management consultant. The couple has one son, Matthew, 25. Following ordination, Keenan said he would like to continue working with Sacred Heart’s twinning relationship with St. Jean Baptiste Parish in Haiti; teaching and working with the parish’s young families interested in participating more fully in parish life; and longtime parishioners interested in passing on the parish’s identity and traditions. ■ David Keene and Erin Shields, St. Josaphat Parish, 2311 N. Southport Ave. Keene, 56, works as an archaeologist and historic preservation specialist. The couple has three children: James, 17; Shannon, 14; and Thomas, 14. Keene said he would like to get more involved with St. Josaphat’s sharing parish after ordination. ■ Mariusz and Wiola Kosla, St. John Brebeuf Parish, Niles. Mariusz, 35, is a clinical nurse specialist for intensive care at St. Alexius Medical Center and the assistant director of music and liturgy at St. John Brebeuf. The couple has two children: Natalia, 10; and Marcelina, 9. After ordination, Kosla said he would like to continue coordinating the baptismal preparation program, facilitating formation of various parish liturgical ministries, work on developing a marriage ministry program and begin prison ministry. ■ Gary and Barb Kupsak, St. Mary of the Annunciation, Mundelein. Kupsak, 62, is a retired police chief currently working for the Lake County Sheriff ’s Department (Court Security Division). The Kupsaks have two children: Todd, 38, and Andy, 32. After ordination, he plans on being involved with baptismal preparation, sharing parish, parish seniors, the Lake County jail and the Illinois Department of Corrections Prison Ministry. ■ Jozef and Martha Mika, St. John the Evangelist Parish, Streamwood. Mika, 50, was born in Poland and came to the United States. when he was 21. He works as a machinery assembler and service technician. Mika said he would like to work with marriage preparation, visiting the sick or assisting the homebound following ordination. ■ Rob and Janel Morris, St. Cajetan Parish, 2443 W. 112th St. Morris, 37, works as a Chicago firefighter. The couple has five children: Michael, 8; Ian, 6; Daniel, 4; Mary, 2; and Stephen, infant. Once ordained Morris is hoping to start up more outreach programs inside the parish. He also is looking forward to working with newly engaged couples and “baptizing as many babies as they throw at me,” he said. ■ Michael and Lisa Pindelski, St. Francis of Assisi Parish, Orland Park. Pindelski, 48, works as an accountant. The couple has three children: Michael Jr., 21; Andrew, 20; and Laura, 18. Pindelski would like to minister in marriage enrichment and continue his involvement with the RCIA and Christ Renews His Parish following ordination. ■ Thomas and Linda Rzendzian, Sacred Heart Parish, Palos Hills. Rzendzian, 56, is a sales manager for a food and beverage packaging company. The couple has two children: Amanda, 30, and Jennifer, 27. Rzendzian said he would like to work in marriage ministry and with the poor in the community following ordination. “I am open to where the Holy Spirit may lead me,” Rzendzian said. ■ William Smyser and Nelida Smyser-DeLeon, St. Aloysius Parish, 2300 W. Le Moyne St. Smyser, 52, works as a business development manager for Global Recruiters Network. The couple has three children: Joshua, 20; Alexis, 14; and Samantha, 14. After ordination, Smyser said he hopes to be involved with adult spiritual formation programs and marriage preparation. ■ Emil and Sandra Vasek, St. Kieran Parish, Chicago Heights. Vasek, 56, works as a district sales manager for Illinois Tool Works. The Vaseks have two children: Jason, 29, and Stacy, 25. Vasek said he would like to pursue ministry to the elderly, especially the homebound and those in nursing homes following ordination. June 2010
Archdiocese announces revision of Deacon Formation Program New Design Responds to Evolving Role of Deacons
Chicago, IL (June 30, 2010) - The Archdiocese of Chicago today announced a revision (part of an ongoing transition since 2006) of the program which trains men for ordination as deacons. The Deacon Formation Program, which is administered by the University of Saint Mary of the Lake / Mundelein Seminary, will follow a design more similar to the way priests are (theologically) prepared for ordination. “The new program will follow the same calendar and be very similar in its sequence of courses to what is done in the seminary program,” said Deacon Bob Puhala, Director of Deacon Formation. “Diaconal ministry is ordained ministry, so following some of the approaches of the seminary which have been proven to be effective simply makes good sense.” The new program will focus on the candidate’s development of a strong identity as an ordained minister which, in turn, will integrate his mission and ministry. Intellectual formation will be expanded, especially as deacons are more often called upon to preach at Mass and assume a teaching role in the parish. The decision to revise the program was initiated by the publication of a set of norms from the Holy See (19981) and the U.S. Bishops (2005). These norms recognize the evolution of the diaconate in the years since it was reestablished as a permanent order in the Church by the Second Vatican Council. “With forty years of experience since the Council, we can re-evaluate the formational goals of our programs in light of the lived experience of deacons and their wives,” said Father Thomas Baima, the Provost of the University of Saint Mary of the Lake, who oversees all the archdiocesan formation programs. “This is the third revision of the program in four decades. Each time, the program has been strengthened. “ The University of Saint Mary of the Lake / Mundelein Seminary is the major seminary of the Archdiocese of Chicago. In addition to the seminary program, USML offers degree programs to men and women through its Ecclesiastical Faculty and Liturgical Institute. The Department of Ministerial and Continuing Education at Mundelein offers training and development for a wide variety of church roles. These include a volunteer lay ministry program, Called and Gifted, as well as graduate formation for lay ecclesial ministers such as Pastoral Associates and Directors of Religious Education. Its Ongoing Formation Program prepares priests to assume the office of pastor and offers certificates in catechetical leadership for principals and coordinators of religious education or youth ministry. It also offers the basic certificate for catechists. The Instituto de Liderazgo Pastoral offers lay ministry, deacon and ongoing formation programs in Spanish.
May 2010
Congratulations to all who celebrate an anniversary of ordination
Mundelein, Il—May is the traditional month of ordination for both permanent deacons and priests. “The beautiful month of May is a wonderful time for parishioners to pray for—and congratulate– the deacons and priests who minister in their parish as they celebrate an anniversary of ordination,” said Fr. Dennis Stafford, Director of Spiritual Formation for the Deacon Formation Program of the Archdiocese of Chicago. The dedication and commitment of deacons and priests is cause for celebration. The formation program acknowledges that currently there exists a hostile climate in many parts of the world in which much of Christianity and its ministers are maligned and “a simple thank-you goes a long way in raising the spirit and renewed commitment of the ordained,” said Stafford. The Deacon Formation Program offers its congratulations and prayers to all who celebrate an anniversary of ordination.
April 2010
Ordained deacons, lay leaders and pastors assist vocation recruitment
Mundelein, Il— The Deacon Formation Program of the Archdiocese of Chicago would like to remind all pastors, deacons and parish leaders that it is ‘Application’ time once again. It is the Holy Spirit who directs men to consider a potential vocation. However, the human element plays the pivotal role of inviting inquirers to take a leap of faith and explore vocation potentiality with the help of the Church. “The role of pastors, deacons and lay leaders in identifying potential vocations to the permanent diaconate is so very crucial,” said Fr. Dennis Stafford, Director of Spiritual Formation. “The people in the trenches are our eyes, hands, feet and voice in all pastoral settings. They are truly the fundamental recruiters. Theirs is a singular important role and the Deacon Formation Program is blessed and thankful for their support.” The Deacon Formation Program would like to remind inquirers that all applications need to be submitted by a sponsoring pastor and parish. Applications are accepted at all times during the year but cutoff for a given formation year is generally April or May. Inquirers are encouraged to initially submit a Pre-Application to expedite the process.
March 2010
Pastors are partners with the Deacon Formation Program
Mundelein, Il—The Deacon Formation Program of the Archdiocese of Chicago believes in partnering with sponsoring pastors. Pastors make significant contributions to the success of their candidate. “Having been a pastor and having sent one candidate through the program, I realize the importance of positive affirmation of a candidate from the pastor,” said Reverend Dennis Stafford, Director of Spiritual Formation. Pastors have influence on the motivation and discernment of candidates for Holy Orders (permanent deacon). Some of the primary expectations of pastors include sponsoring, supervising in-parish assignments, annually evaluating the candidate’s progress and endorsing the candidate to move toward the ordination path. While noting the demands of ministry require that candidates be competent to stand with and assist the pastor in his role as the parish theologian, Stafford said, “Throughout the process, which entails a minimum of four years of theological study and formation, the pastor’s main objective is to instill a positive and welcoming attitude. This affirmation extends not only to the candidate but to the parish staff and community as well. Without a doubt, when affirmation and a welcoming atmosphere are present so is a spirit of successful discernment. Candidate’s come alive and succeed in the freedom that exists in a positive environment.”
February 2010
Field education is a key component for learning new skill sets
Mundelein, Il—Candidates are moving into their field education experiences which are designed to aid know-how in the three ministries of the deacon: Service to the Word, Liturgy, and Charity. Year-Two candidates are engaging in a six-month Service to the Liturgy Internship in their sponsoring parish. “The men are asked to observe a deacon presiding at baptisms, weddings and a wake and interment service. They are also asked to prepare and deliver three scripture reflections at a parish meeting or event,” said Anne Chrzan, Associate Director. “The aspirants will be participating in a Service to Charity field experience over the summer that incorporates 24 hours of hands-on service to an archdiocesan social service agency,” said Fr. Dennis Stafford, Director of Spiritual Formation.
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