Permanent Diaconate Formation

Welcome and thank you for inquiring about initial qualifications to the Permanent Deacon Formation Program (DFP) of the Diocese of Pensacola-Tallahassee.

This is an exciting time as you listen to the prompting of the Holy Spirit regarding a potential vocation. This is also the first-step in pursuing knowledge about the role of the deacon; the program of formation leading to potential ordination (reception of the Sacrament of Holy Orders); and exploring initial eligibility, which can be reviewed in this "Application Requirements” document.

When the formal discernment process begins, prior to the application process, all applications will be requested and submitted by your pastor. A pre-application Inventory will be given to each man who enters the discernment process. This Inventory is a way for you to further inquire about the potential of applying to the Formation Program and a means for those responsible for the discernment process to review several important and necessary considerations regarding a person’s eligibility to pursue the application process and acceptance into the program.

This initial process is confidential and enables the Diocese of Pensacola-Tallahassee to verify the necessary freedom, or lack of freedom, a man possesses to pursue formal discernment and candidacy for the reception of the Sacrament of Holy Orders. Please do not ‘read into’ the questions any negative connotation. By answering ‘no’ (or ‘yes’) to any of the questions provided does not imply potential acceptability nor ineligibility. Rather, one or more of your answers may alert us to the need to address and clarify any potential issues. All of the information requested in the Inventory will be eventually be requested formally during the application and formation process. We earnestly strive to address impediments to conditional acceptance into formation before the formal application process.

The Inventory will offer assistance to both the man and the Permanent Deacon Formation Team in assessing the potential for entry into formal discernment and study.

Please note:  The first step of discerning a call to the Permanent Diaconate is to contact your parish priest

The next inquiry phase will begin in 2024.
May God bless you and your family! 

Father Joseph Callipare
Office of the Permanent Diaconate, Director of Deacon Formation
Diocese of Pensacola-Tallahassee
11 North "B” Street
Pensacola, FL 32502

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