ADW - Office of the Permanent Diaconate

The Permanent Diaconate

Permanent Deacons are men ordained in service to the People of God in the threefold ministries of liturgy, the word and charity. By faithful practice of spiritual and corporal works of mercy, the deacon by word and example spreads Christ’s message of love and truth to all in the parish and the wider community. At present, there are nearly 150 permanent deacons appointed by the Archbishop to many parishes within the Archdiocese of Washington, and they are assigned to numerous Ministries of Charity, including prison ministry, outreach to the poor, and visitation of the sick. The permanent deacon assists the Priest at Mass, and also helps in teaching sacramental preparation and catechesis at the parish.

Formation Gifts to assist formation will defray expenses of the one-year Aspirancy and four-year candidacy formation process leading to ordination, including classroom training and spiritual retreats. There are currently 31 candidates in formation.
	Ongoing Formation Gifts to assist ongoing formation for permanent deacons will defray expenses for retreats, spiritual enrichment and training workshops aimed at deepening the permanent deacon’s ministry.