The formation process leading to the Sacrament of Holy Orders (Permanent
Diaconate) is a multi-dimensional program of five years in duration.  Formation
is inclusive of education but it is much more.  It is developmental in that it has
dimensions: Spiritual, Human, Intellectual, Pastoral, and Diaconal.

Each of these dimensions has four major perspectives: Family, Multicultural
Sensitivity, Social Justice Advocacy, Ecumenical and Inter-Religious spirit. 
Formation starts with an orientation for the new class followed by the first year
retreat in July.  In general, class work begins in August and concludes with a
retreat in July annually until ordination.  A general overview of the formation
process is listed below,  You can also see a sample schedule by using this
link:  SAMPLE SCHEDULE

YEAR ONE
The first year is known as the Aspirancy Year.  It is a year of introduction to
various aspects of prayer, ministry, spirituality and self-assessment.  The focus
of the year is personal discernment about your call to the Diaconate.  The first
year begins with a weekend retreat.  An assessment by the Aspirant and the
Diaconate Office is conducted at the end of the first year to determine if the
aspirant should proceed on to the Candidacy phase.  Classes are held once
a month on a designated Saturday at Maloney Center.

YEARS TWO THROUGH FIVE 
This begins the Candidacy phase which lasts for four years.  The academics
become much more intense with study through the St. Meinrad Diaconate
Formation Program. 

Most all classes will be held in Louisville at Maloney Center and will consist of
a three-day weekend (Friday, Saturday and Sunday) ten times a year.  Classes
are taught by the faculty or adjunct faculty professors at St. Meinrad School of
Theology.  While St. Meinrad provides graduate level instruction, classes in the
Diaconate program are more tailored to the adult education model.  All who
teach realize many in the Diaconate Formation Program have not been in school
for many years and this is factored into their lectures and course work.

It should be noted that the men in Candidacy must successfully complete all the 
courses offered before he can be ordained.  If a course weekend is missed
it must be made-up prior to ordination.  For a full listing of all courses that will
be offered, please view the Education page using the link above.

RETREATS 
All retreats are an important part of formation and both spouses are encouraged
to attend all of them.  Retreats are held annually over one weekend.  A final retreat
just before ordination is a five-day retreat at St. Meinrad.