Dear Brother Deacons,

Yes, it's that time again! Another year has gone by, and it's time to sit down with our pastors or ministry supervisors to review 2007-2008 and plan for 2012-2013. As we work toward compliance with the National Directory on the Diaconate, it is important that we have all records as accurate as possible. Therefore, it is essential that we have a current ministerial agreement for each deacon who has faculties. Forms are being sent with this letter to all active deacons of the diocese; many of you will also receive them by e-mail. Please note that even if you fill out the forms electronically, they must be printed, signed the old-fashioned way by you, your pastor (and your spouse if appropriate), and mailed to this office. Included in this mailing you will find the following:

1. Annual Ministry Report (for period 7/1/11 to 6/30/12) This form is to be filled out by all deacons including those who status is Retired. Tell us what your ministry has been like this past year. Complete the form and return it either separately or with your Ministry Agreement. This form should be signed by both you and your pastor or supervisor. You must return this form to remain in good standing in this Archdiocese.

2. Parish Ministry Agreement and/or Special Ministry Agreement (2012-2015) These two forms are to be filled out only by the deacons whose status is Active. Both forms have been included. If your ministry is only in the parish, use the Parish Ministry Agreement; if you ministry is only outside the parish (jail, hospital, etc.) use the Special Ministry Agreement. If you are involved in ministry both in the parish and outside the parish, you will need to fill out both forms. This form must be signed by you, your pastor/supervisor, and your wife if you are married. You must return this form to remain in good standing in this Archdiocese. When completed, make copies for yourself and your pastor/supervisor before sending the original to this office. Please note that these two agreements will be good for three years.

3. Deacon Ministry Evaluation (for period 7/1/11 to 6/30/12) This form is to be filled out only by the deacons whose status is Active. Your pastor/supervisor should complete this form and discuss it with you. We encourage you to use this as a tool for you and your pastor/supervisor to review the past year and to examine your gifts as well as to explore areas for growth in your ministry and skills. Please note that this form is to be signed and returned. New directives require that periodic evaluations be included in a deacon's personnel file.

4. Deacon Profile Update

Also included is a copy of your current personal information as we have it on file. All deacons must return this form regardless of your status. If any additions or changes are needed, please make corrections on the form and return it to this office. Please make sure that your e-mail is correct because most of the correspondence from the Office of the Diaconate will be through the internet. If you don't have e-mail, ask your parish if they would provide one for you so that you can receive timely information of upcoming events for the diaconate community. Even if all the information is correct and complete, please return the form to the Office of the Diaconate at the above address indicating that there are no changes.