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Diocese of Honolulu | Deacon Formation Program

 

A vocation to the diaconate often begins quietly — through prayer, service, the encouragement of others, or simply a growing sense that God may be calling you to something more. Discernment is the process of listening to that call and allowing the Church to help you understand where God may be leading.

Begin with prayer — not simply asking God for an answer, but entering into an honest dialogue with him. Speak openly about what is stirring in your heart, take time to listen, and allow the Holy Spirit to guide your thoughts, questions, and desires as you begin to discern where God may be leading you.

 
Do a little homework. Read about the diaconate online, visit trusted Catholic resources like the USCCB, watch videos and stories from deacons and their wives, and pick up or borrow a book or two. Learn what deacons actually do, how they live their vocation, and what formation and ordained ministry involve. We've curated a short list of excellent resources to begin your exploration -- Learn more. 

Talk with people who can help you discern — your pastor, a deacon, another priest or religious, and those who know you well. Sometimes the first recognition of a vocation comes through others who see something in us before we see it ourselves. 

Discernment takes time. Continue praying, serving,  listening, and asking whether God may be calling you to serve his Church as a deacon.

If you are married, your wife should be part of this discernment from the beginning. A vocation to the diaconate affects the whole marriage and family, and her support and consent are essential to moving forward.

If that sense of call remains, you are invited — along with your wife, if married — to attend one of our Deacon Formation Inquiry Weekends.

You may want to review the Requirements for Formation, which outline the basic eligibility and expectations for those considering the diaconate.

Attending an Inquiry Weekend does not commit you to becoming a deacon or even to applying for formation. It is an opportunity to learn more, ask questions, pray, and continue discerning whether God may be calling you to take the next step.