Program Components

Academic:
The academic program of Saint Meinrad School of Theology's Permanent Deacon Formation Program is designed to engage candidates in the study of theology as preparation for the ministry of the permanent deacon and for personal growth and development. The course of study includes the foundations of theological reflection in the study of the Bible, Church history and liturgy. It includes the study of the breadth of theological disciplines: systematics, sacramental/liturgical, moral theology and spirituality.

It offers rich opportunities for those who wish to prepare for ministry in the Church through the study of religious education, homiletics, pastoral care and counseling, and Church law. The academic component spans four years. Courses are generally offered as two course units each in the fall and spring semesters with additional coursework or practica offered in January and June. The courses and schedule of classes in the deacon formation academic curriculum are flexible and adapted to the needs of each diocese.

Spiritual:
The spiritual formation component of the permanent deacon formation offers integrated development of the candidate's awareness of his discipleship with his evolving understanding of the theological disciplines. Spiritual formation is supported through an emphasis on the importance of daily Eucharist and the Liturgy of the Hours and through retreats, spiritual direction, and participation in theological reflection groups.

Human and Pastoral:
Quality formation in the skills necessary for ministry has been a hallmark of Saint Meinrad's ministry formation programs from the beginning. Skills in preaching, liturgical presiding, parish and diocesan administration and leadership, religious education and pastoral care form the baseline of areas of expertise for permanent deacons.

The development of skills and personal competencies is achieved through monthly formation sessions that address specific ministries or skills and through supervised ministry assignments. Because of the centrality of the ministry of the Word to the deacon's work, Saint Meinrad includes an eight-day homiletics workshop at the Saint Meinrad campus as part of the formation program.