THE MARRIED DEACONS IN THE CATHOLIC CHURCH.

 THE MARRIED DEACONS IN THE CATHOLIC CHURCH.

The diaconate is one of three orders that make up the sacrament of holy orders — bishop, priest and deacon.

There are two types of deacons in the Catholic Church:

1. Permanent deacons

2. Transitional deacons.

Only men can be deacons; it is an ordained position and only men can be ordained clerics in the Catholic Church.

The main focus here will be on permanent deacons.

1.WHO IS A PERMANENT DEACON?

Permanent deacons are ordained clerics in the Catholic Church but have no intentions of becoming a priest. They can be married or not

married.

2.MUST A PERMANENT DEACON BE MARRIED?

Permanent deacons may be married or single. However, if they are not married at the time they are ordained, they cannot marry after and are expected to live a life of celibacy.

If it is permanent diaconate of one who is married, he must have completed at least 35 years of age, and with the consent of his wife.

If it is permanent diaconate of one who is not married, he must have completed at least 25 years of age.

3. WHAT ARE THE WORKS OF PERMANENT DEACONS?

Both permanent and transitional deacons perform the same duties in the church. Deacons aid priests in their parish duties by visiting the sick, providing spiritual guidance in the community and acting as a servant of God.

In addition, deacons can witness marriages, perform baptisms, preside over funeral and burial services outside of Mass, distribute the Holy Communion and preach the homily (a sermon given after the Gospel of Mass).

4. HOW DOES A PERMANENT DEACON SUPPORT HIS FAMILY?

Married deacons who dedicate themselves full-time to the ecclesiastical ministry are given remuneration sufficient to provide for themselves and their families. Those, however, who receive a remuneration by reason of a secular profession which they exercise or have exercised, are to see to their own and to their families’ needs from that income.”

Permanent Deacons are permitted to hold secular jobs to provide for themselves and their families.

5. REQUIREMENTS TO BECOME A PERMANENT DEACON

1. The person must be at least 35 years and practicing, baptized members of the Roman Catholic Church.

2. The person must satisfy certain marriage requirements. If married, he must ensure the Church recognizes the marriage.

3. The person must meet education requirements, as well.

4. The person should be in good health and be able to dedicate time to the formation program, a five-year course of study for prospective deacons.

5. The person should discuss the decision with God, their families and their priest. They should pray for guidance to ensure the path is sanctioned and discuss the desire to join the diaconate with their families.

6. If married, a deacon must receive the consent of his wife to proceed. Speaking with a priest will help a deacon decide if the life of a cleric is right for him.

Once a deacon has met these requirements, he may submit an application to the diocese of choice.