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Theology
Diaconal Formation
Graduate
Special Program

Diaconal Formation

Since the restoration of the permanent diaconate to the hierarchy of sacred orders by the Second Vatican Council (1962-65), growth in the diaconate has surged in the United States and worldwide. In 2010, the Center was established to focus on the increasing intellectual formation needs of the permanent diaconate, by providing Christ-centered academic programs to prepare students to be heralds of the Gospel and servants and leaders of the New Evangelization.

Our unique and innovative Center addresses the intellectual norms set forth in the National Directory for the Formation, Ministry, and Life of Permanent Deacons in the United States by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, preparing men for leadership roles as ordained ministers in their local parishes, diocese institutions and the Universal Church. Students acquire the knowledge and skills to carry out the deacon's ministry of word, liturgy and charity.

STUDENT FACTS

  • 155 Percent Student Growth 2011-24
  • 75% Faculty Involvement
  • 46% Students Self-Identifying as Ethnic Minorities
  • 4 Number of Dioceses Served
Theology Certificate Steps

Called to Serve

Infusing Catholic mission and Gospel values into our society.

Dr. Michael Giuliano

"It isn't just the teaching that has impacted me, but the community of men that has developed in our class and among our teachers. We are men of faith working, praying, studying, laughing and crying together in the service of the Church. How can you not be changed?"

Michael Giuliano
Diaconal Candidate and Neonatal Pediatrician

Curriculum

The graduate-level courses in this program are offered through Immaculate Conception Seminary School of Theology and taught by Seminary faculty. Upon successful completion of the program, students earn an M.A. in Theology with a concentration in Systematics and/or a Certificate in Diaconal Studies.

Our program focuses on the intellectual formation norms outlined in the National Directory for the Formation, Ministry and Life of Permanent Deacons in the United States, including:

Sacred Scripture
Theology of God
Christian Anthropology
Christology
Ecclesiology

Worship
Liturgy
Sacraments
Moral Theology
Canon Law

View detailed curriculum »

Faculty

The following is a selection of faculty of the Immaculate Conception Seminary School of Theology (ICSST). Click to read more about all of our ICSST faculty »

Gregory Glazov posing
Gregory Glazov
Professor and Chair of Biblical Studies
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McCarren posing
Rev. Msgr. Gerard McCarren
Rector/Dean, and Associate Professor of Systematic Theology
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Timothy Fortin Headshot posing
Timothy Fortin
Associate Professor and Chair of Philosophical Theology
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Pawel Tomczyk posing
Rev. Pawel Tomczyk
Director of Pastoral Formation and Assistant Professor of Moral Theology
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Stay Connected. Grow in Your Faith with Us.

In addition to graduate-level academic programs, we collaborate with Immaculate Conception Seminary School of Theology and the Institute for Christian Spirituality to offer workshops, lectures and presentations for diaconal candidates, deacons and their wives that focus on Christian spirituality, new evangelization and parish services. Join our mailing list to stay up-to-date on all of our upcoming events, news and course offerings.

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