Permanent deacons from throughout the Diocese of Peoria applaud as members of a new class are accepted into the ministry of acolyte in this Catholic Post file photo.

The Office of the Permanent Diaconate has announced a pre-inquiry program for men interested in being a part of the next formation class.

Potential applicants should first speak with their pastor and/or a deacon in their parish. The next step would be to contact the Office of the Permanent Diaconate, (309) 671-1550, to request an application. Applicants will then meet with Msgr. Timothy Nolan, episcopal vicar, for an initial interview.

All applications must be received by Jan. 15, 2022.

If an applicant is married, he must be in a “stable, mature and valid marriage” for at least five years and have the consent and participation of his wife to pursue the deacon formation process. The applicant must also be prepared to embrace the commitment to lifelong celibacy should his wife precede him in death.

If he is single, the applicant must demonstrate the ability to accept a commitment to lifelong celibacy, since a man may not marry after ordination to the diaconate.

There will be an informal meeting on Nov. 20, 2021, at 10 a.m. for those seeking more information. Questions are also welcomed anytime at the diaconate office.