The path to becoming permanent deacons became one step shorter for 14 men from across the Diocese of Charlotte as they were instituted to the role of acolyte Feb. 14, 2026.CHARLOTTE — Deacons play essential roles in parish life – from baptizing babies to assisting at funerals – but less than half of the diocese’s parishes and missions currently have an assigned deacon. To address this growing need, a change in the structure of deacon formation will enable more men to prepare to be permanent deacons in the Diocese of Charlotte.
Deacon SchreiberThe addition of a second preparation class with a staggered start will enable the diocese to eventually have ordinations every two or three years instead of the current average of five years without reducing the length of time each individual spends in preparation, according to Deacon William Schreiber, director of the permanent diaconate for the diocese.
“The whole focus is for us to be able to ordain more frequently and allow more opportunities for men,” Deacon Schreiber said.
It takes five years to become a permanent deacon in the diocese. Men must first apply and then be invited to join a class by the bishop. They then go through two years of aspirancy, during which they learn more about the role of deacons in the life of the Church. That is followed by three years of formation, during which candidates and their wives take additional instruction in human, spiritual, intellectual and pastoral formation.
Having two classes in different stages of preparation at the same time will allow more men to study for ordination and speed up the process of getting permanent deacons into service at parishes that need them. Currently 44 of the diocese’s 93 parishes and missions don’t have an assigned deacon.
As a first step in that process, a new class began March 21, with 11 men entering the beginning stages of their journey at St. Philip the Apostle Church in Statesville, which is likely where most instruction will take place going forward.
The 11 men beginning their journey toward becoming deacons join another 14 who are on track to be ordained in 2027.
“I’m excited about it,” Deacon Schreiber said. “We have a good group of men who represent a good cross-section of different cultures.”
The new structure will also shorten wait times for those feeling the call to serve.
“In the past I would have to tell some men ‘We’ve just started a class, so you’ll have to wait five years until the next one starts’.” Deacon Schreiber said. “That can kind of dampen someone’s desire.”
Deacon Schreiber said the immediate goal is start a new class every two years, which will enable more men to perform the important roles deacons play.
“Most people’s view is that the deacon is just the guy who always is there to help at the Mass, but that is just the tip of the iceberg,” Deacon Schreiber said. “Deacons baptize, they help out at funerals, take Communion to the sick, prepare couples for marriage, teach OCIA – you name it, we’re doing it. The diaconate is first and foremost a ministry of charitable service.”
— Christina Lee Knauss. File photo by Troy C. Hull