Hey Guys!

I was curious, does anyone have information on becoming a Permanent Deacon? I know its usually older gentlemen. But I would love to know a little more details. Are they usually fulltime service to the church, or partime?

I for some reason, have had this itch in my heart for the past while, and i feel like God is pushing me in this direction, later on in my life knowing now that I am way too young (19). I was just curious on if anyone could help. Thanks in advance.

my grandpa's a permanent deacon. you have to talk to your vocation director in your diocese and probably have an interview with the bishop...

As a permanent deacon your priorities are 1. your family 2. your job and 3. your deaconate. so its not really full time service to the church the same way as a priest, no. you still have your secular job and take care of your family (if you have one...you ahve to have one before you are ordained, because ordained deacons can't get married).....and then you take care of the needs of your parish. you take communion to people who can't get out of their houses, visit hospitals, talk to children, do counselling, and all sorts of stuff. you can do weddings and baptisms (my grandpa has baptized all the grandchildren that have been born after his ordination)...

anyway good luck with your discernment!

If you are interested in a vocation to the religious life, but don't feel called to the priesthood, maybe you should consider being a brother....
I know a number of brothers who are very happy in their service to the church. Some orders that I know of to maybe look at...
the Franciscan Friars of the Renewal CFRs
Marist Brothers Marists
Dominicans OP
Carmelites Discalced Carmelites
Missionaries of the Eternal Word MFVA


Just a thought!! Good luck in your discernment! If you want any other suggestions for communities of brothers/ with brothers, just post something, and people will have tons of great orders.

In Jesus and Mary,
Lauren

Have you checked out this website? I think it might be helpful.

Thank you so much! That site rocks.

Thanks guys for all the prayers, and the encouragement....its awesome coming to such a welcoming place.

Zoticus,

In my diocese a few years back, the minimum age for permenant deaconate was 35. Because of this "itch" you feel, don't exclude the fact that you may be called to priesthood. You are at the right age for discerning this call.
Mr. Ray