Permanent Diaconate

PERMANENT DIACONATE

In the Catholic Church, the diaconate is the first of three ranks in ordained ministry. Deacons preparing for the priesthood are transitional deacons. Those not planning to be ordained priests are called permanent deacons. Married men may be ordained permanent deacons, and single men may be ordained with a commitment to celibacy.

The Office for the Permanent Diaconate provides general information on the vocation of the deacon. It conducts the selection and admission process for inquirers to diaconate formation and provides a diaconate formation program for the Diocese. We encourage human, spiritual, intellectual, pastoral and vocational formation among deacons, candidates, aspirants and inquirers, and our office serves as a resource for placement and other personnel concerns of diocesan deacons. 

Deacon William Hisker serves as the diocesan director of the Office for the Permanent Diaconate. Lindsay DeCario serves as the diocesan administrative assistant for the office. They can both be reached at 724-837-0901.