Transitional Deacon

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The Archdiocese of St. Louis strives to teach and share our faith, serve others, and foster unity throughout the St. Louis area. Once a part of Kenrick-Glennon Seminary's campus, the Cardinal Rigali Center in Shrewsbury, MO is today the headquarters and curia (governing body) for the Archdiocese of St. Louis.

A Transitional Deacon is an ordained minister in the Catholic Church who serves in a parish or diocesan setting for a period of formation and ministry prior to ordination to the priesthood. The transitional deacon assists the bishop, priests, and the faithful by proclaiming the Word of God, assisting at the altar, and exercising works of charity. This ministry is both pastoral and liturgical, with a strong emphasis on spiritual growth and readiness for priestly service.

Liturgical Ministry

• Proclaim the Gospel and preach homilies at Mass.
• Assist the priest at the altar during liturgical celebrations.
• Administer the sacrament of Baptism.
• Witness and bless marriages.
• Preside at funeral rites outside of Mass.
• Lead communal prayer, Liturgy of the Hours, and Eucharistic Adoration.

Pastoral Ministry

• Serve the spiritual and pastoral needs of the parish community.
• Visit the sick, homebound, and those in hospitals or nursing facilities.
• Participate in catechetical and faith formation programs.
• Engage in outreach to the poor, marginalized, and those in need.
• Support parish ministries and collaborate with staff and volunteers.

Formation & Personal Growth

• Continue academic, spiritual, and pastoral formation under the guidance of the seminary and diocese.
• Meet regularly with a priest-mentor and/or spiritual director.
• Participate in retreats, workshops, and diocesan formation programs.
• Live a life of prayer, celibacy, obedience, and service in preparation for priestly ordination.

• Ordained as a Transitional Deacon in the Catholic Church.
• Completion of required seminary formation (theological, pastoral, and spiritual studies).
• Strong commitment to prayer, service, and the teachings of the Catholic Church.
• Ability to work collaboratively with clergy, parish staff, and lay volunteers.
• Effective communicator with strong preaching and pastoral care skills.

The Archdiocese of St. Louis is an Equal Opportunity Employer and prohibits discrimination and harassment of any kind. All employment decisions are based on business needs, job requirements and individual qualifications without regard to race, color, religion, gender, national origin, age, marital, parental, veteran or disability status.