Transitional Deacons

In the Roman Catholic Church, a transitional deacon is a celibate man who has been ordained a deacon and who intends to become a priest. Transitional deacons are usually ordained to the diaconate after they complete their third year at the theological seminary. For several centuries, all Roman Catholic deacons were in this transitional stage between layman and priest.

To proclaim the Gospel, to dispense the Eucharist, to give instruction in Holy Doctrine, to prepare for the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass and to preside over baptisms, marriages, funerals and public prayer. A deacon also carries out acts of charity in the name of the Bishop or pastor.