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Diocese of Honolulu | Deacon Formation Program

There is no shortage of information available online about the permanent diaconate, discernment, formation, and ordained ministry. The resources below are a good place to begin and can help point you toward reliable, trustworthy information as you continue learning.

Whether you are just beginning to explore the diaconate or already considering the next step, we encourage you to read, watch, listen, ask questions, and continue bringing what you discover into prayer.

 

Church Documents & Resources

Frequently Asked Questions About Deacons — USCCB
A straightforward introduction to the permanent diaconate and common questions about the vocation. (USCCB)

National Directory for the Formation, Ministry and Life of Permanent Deacons in the United States — USCCB
The principal guide for the formation, ministry, and life of permanent deacons in the United States. (USCCB)

Basic Norms for the Formation of Permanent Deacons & Directory for the Ministry and Life of Permanent Deacons — Vatican
The universal Church’s foundational documents on the formation and ministry of permanent deacons. (Vatican)

Lumen Gentium, No. 29 — Second Vatican Council
The conciliar text describing the restored permanent diaconate and its ministry of liturgy, Word, and charity. (Vatican)

 

Featured Articles

2024 Hawaii Catholic Herald
A four-page special feature exploring the permanent diaconate in Hawaiʻi — what a deacon is, the history and ministry of the diaconate, common misconceptions, the formation journey, and candid reflections from deacons and their wives.

2026 Hawaii Catholic Herald
A six-page special feature on the Vocation and Formation of the Permanent deacon - When a Calling Takes Root, Learning to Listen, Wifes & Families Alongside the Call, and Formed through the Fire. 

Intentionality and the Diaconate — Deacon Dominic Cerrato, The Deacon
A reflection on the identity of the deacon and his relationship with Christ the Servant.

What About the Wives? — Lani Dale Bogart, The Deacon
A helpful look at the experience of wives and the place of marriage and family in diaconal discernment and formation.

A Call of Their Own: The Role of Deacons in the Church — U.S. Catholic
An approachable overview of the permanent diaconate and the distinctive role of deacons in the Church.

Looking Back and Ahead: The Theology Behind the Permanent Diaconate — Scott Dodge, America
A deeper look at the history and theology of the permanent diaconate following its restoration by the Second Vatican Council.