Called to the Diaconate

All interested and qualified Catholic men are being called to apply for a new formation class to serve the Church as permanent deacons. Permanent deacons are ordained ministers in the Roman Catholic Church. They assist priests at Mass, preach on occasion, and preside at baptisms, weddings, funeral services, and other liturgical functions. They provide pastoral care to people in hospitals, nursing homes, jails, and prisons, among other settings, sharing the Faith by word and example. Currently, 110 permanent deacons serve in the diocese; 6 men are in the formation program.

Applicants must be between the ages of 30 and 59, a college graduate, and in full communion with the Catholic Church. They also must have a secure job or source of income and feel called to serve. The vast majority of permanent deacons are married. It must be noted that they must be married before being ordained.

More details and applicant criteria will be shared at information sessions for interested applicants (and their wives), held at the Diocesan Pastoral Center (2900 Noblestown Road, Pittsburgh, PA 15205):

• Tuesday, June 17, 2025: 6:30PM to 9:00PM
• Saturday, June 21, 2025: 9:00AM to 11:30AM
• Wednesday, July 9, 2025: 6:30PM to 9:00PM

To begin the application process, a nomination by the inquirer’s pastor or by another priest or deacon of the Diocese of Pittsburgh is required by the deadline of August 31, 2025. Applications without a nomination will not be considered. The formation program typically lasts for five years.

To register for an information session or for more information about the application process, visit: https://diopitt.org/new-deacon-class.