Archdiocese of Brisbane Diaconate Formation Program

A deacon is ordained to serve the Church in the person of Christ the servant.

Whilst engaging in the broad evangelising mission of the Church beyond the liturgy, a deacon may also baptise, preach, officiate at marriages and funerals outside of Mass, distribute holy communion, and commits to praying the Divine Office each day.

The Sacrament of Holy Orders is expressed in three degrees: deacon, priest and bishop. Some men, often married, are ordained as deacons without continuing on to the other degrees of Holy Orders.

Formation Program

  • Formation

    • Monthly formation sessions covering pastoral, human, spiritual and academic dimensions

    • Annual 5 Day Retreat

    • Complete theological study, usually a Bachelor of Theology or equivalent

    • Conferral of ministries of Lector and Acolyte

  • Spiritual Direction and Accompaniment

    • Journey with a Spiritual Director

    • Meet with a member of the Diaconate Formation team every 6-8 weeks for mentoring

  • Pastoral Service

    • Involvement in the liturgy, parish and community events

    • Exploring and contributing to other fields of mission

Entry Requirements

It is the responsibility of the diocesan bishop to discern a vocation to the diaconate. To be a suitable candidate for ordination, a person must:

• Be a Catholic man of sound moral character and mature faith, who has demonstrated a sense of calling to the ministry of deacon.

• Demonstrate prayerfulness and an openness to further spiritual formation.

• Be at least 35 years of age at the time of ordination, and not normally older than 60 years of age when entering the program.

• Have adequate physical and mental health.

• Have the capacity to complete undergraduate studies and make time for formation without detriment to their family and work commitments.

• Have the support of their wife (if married).

• Have the endorsement of their parish priest.

If you feel God could be calling you to the ministry of Deacon, contact the Vocation Brisbane office for a chat.

We are here to help you discern God’s will so you can be all God created you to be.

Fill out the form to arrange an initial chat, and we’ll be in touch.