Permanent Diaconate

Think you might have a calling to become a deacon? Want to learn more?

The first of three upcoming information sessions for prospective applicants to the Deacon Formation Program is set for Saturday, July 24, from 9 to 11:30 a.m. at the Diocesan Pastoral Center, 2900 Noblestown Road, Pittsburgh 15205.

Two other sessions will take place Thursday, July 29, and Tuesday, August 3, both from 6:30 to 9 p.m.

O’Connor Hall, the first building on the right on the grounds of the Pastoral Center, will be the venue for all three sessions. The sessions will all be the same, so men interested need only attend one.

It's an exciting time in our diocese! Bishop David A. Zubik is calling for a new formation class to begin preparing interested and qualified men for ordained ministry as deacons in the Church of Pittsburgh.

Check out the resources on this page to learn more about who deacons are and what they do; find basic admission requirements; and learn about the application and admission process. Feel free to reach out to the Diaconate Office with questions at deacons@diopitt.org or 412-456-3124.

Deacon Rick Cessar shares how a profound experience of prayer on 9/11 taught him how to minister to people who are in crisis or suffering.

Deacon Greg Jelinek never planned on becoming a teacher, but God had other plans. As a deacon, Deacon Jelinek teaches about the faith in many ways. 

Deacon Tony Giordano shares that part of a deacon's ministry is to help those who are grieving through their healing process.

Deacon Tom Berna works with Meals on Wheels to help to feed the hungry in the community.

Jeffrey McLaughlin was ordained as a permanent deacon on Saturday, June 19, 10:00 am at Saint Maurice Church, which is part of Saint Joseph the Worker Parish.

A parishioner of Saint Joseph the Worker Parish, Jeffrey is the son Regis J. McLaughlin (deceased) and Barbara J. McLaughlin (age 92). He has a Bachelor of Arts in political science and a master’s in public administration, both from the University of Pittsburgh. Jeffrey works as manager of New Stanton Borough in Westmoreland County, a position that he has held for six years.

Deacons assist priests at Mass, preach on occasion, and preside as needed at baptisms, weddings, funeral services, and other liturgical functions.

They also help provide pastoral care to people in hospitals and nursing homes, jails and prisons, and various other settings, sharing the faith by word and example.

Deacons also serve in many other ministries, including:

• Outreach to the poor, imprisoned or disadvantaged
• Teaching CCD
• Leading preparation for baptism and marriage
• Participating in Bible studies and prayer groups
• Ministering to the sick, bereaved and elderly
• Engaging in youth and young adult ministry
• Leading retreats
• Reaching out to non-practicing Catholics.