Discern a call to the permanent diaconate with prayer and guidance from a priest, deacon, or spiritual director
Confirm that you are a baptized, confirmed, practicing Catholic in good standing
Meet your diocese’s age, marital, and residency requirements
If married, obtain the support and consent of your wife
If single, remain committed to celibacy after ordination
Contact your diocesan diaconate office or vocations office
Attend inquiry sessions or information meetings
Submit a formal application to the diocese
Provide required sacramental records, references, and personal history
Complete interviews, background checks, and psychological screening if required
Enter the aspirancy or pre-formation period if accepted
Complete the required years of formation in theology, spirituality, liturgy, Scripture, and pastoral ministry
Participate in retreats, prayer, and supervised ministry assignments
Maintain active parish involvement and a life of service
Receive candidacy after discernment and approval by the diocese
Continue formation until readiness for ordination is confirmed
Be ordained a deacon by the bishop through the sacrament of Holy Orders
Fulfill ongoing obligations of prayer, ministry, and continuing education after ordination