The Nine Sessions
Each session translates the Church’s vision of formation into lived parish realities, with key concepts, case studies, discussion, and practical tools.
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1
Cultivating a Shepherd’s Heart
Reflect on your vocation as spiritual father, mentor, and guide; understand the Vocational Synthesis Stage and your role as primary formator; learn OARS as a pastoral mentoring tool.
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2
Building Strong Relationships: Emotional Maturity, Relational Skills, and Pastoral Sensitivity
Grow in the human and pastoral dimensions of accompaniment, with an introduction to EQ-i 2.0 and DiSC for pastoral communication.
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3
Understanding the Role and Development of Transitional Deacons
Define the deacon’s place in parish life as a partner in ministry, not a trainee, and design a plan to integrate him into the parish.
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4
Strengthening Evangelization and Pastoral Outreach
Move from theory to action with a concrete formation plan that unites parish mission, the pastor’s vision, seminary benchmarks, and the deacon’s goals.
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5
Assessing Effective Pastoral Skills and Leadership
Use clear criteria grounded in the PPF6 benchmarks, stakeholder feedback, and constructive growth plans to articulate readiness for priesthood.
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6
Integrating Pastoral Charity and Service
Help the deacon cultivate authentic pastoral charity through intentional service to the poor, sick, lonely, and marginalized.
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7
Developing Emotional Maturity and Relational Awareness
Integrate EQ-i 2.0 and DiSC insights to mentor deacons through the emotionally demanding realities of rectory and parish life.
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8
Successful Transition from Seminary Formators to Pastors
Bring seminary formators and pastors together for a seamless handoff and a collaborative roadmap tailored to each deacon.
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9
Deepening Theological Understanding and Intellectual Growth
Connect theology with pastoral life, encourage habits of lifelong study, and assess the real-life application of theology in preaching and teaching.