National Directory for the Formation, Ministry and Life of Permanent ...

Notes4995 “The introduction of the title ‘Reverend Mr.’ for permanent deacons could furthercomplicate the issue of identity for deacons. The term ‘Reverend’ has traditionally beenassociated with priests and used only for transitional deacons on their way to priesthood.As there is great sensitivity surrounding the issue of a deacon being seen as a ‘mini-priest,’it would seem that the title ‘Reverend Mr.’ would lead to continued identification of thediaconate with the priesthood, rather than contributing to the independence and integrityof the Order of Deacon in itself. The title ‘Deacon’ would, of course, be appropriate.”Congregation for Catholic Education and the Congregation for the Clergy, Joint Study of theUS Draft Document—National Directory for the Formation, Ministry and Life of PermanentDeacons in the United States, Prot. No. 78/2000 (March 4, 2002).96 CIC, c. 288.97 Liturgical books clearly specify the liturgical garb of a deacon for various rites and liturgicalcelebrations. Here, the intent is to bring about harmony between dioceses, especiallyon a provincial level, as to the appropriate clerical attire, if any, for other formal clericalministries of deacons. In some places, deacons wear a clerical shirt and Roman collar; otherswear pectoral crosses or deacon lapel pins, while still others wear a modified dress shirt.There is confusion about what is appropriate clerical attire among deacons themselves andamong the lay faithful. Recognizing the geographical and social diversity that exists in ourcountry, the Bishops’ Committee on the Diaconate offers this particular law as a practicalresponse to a national concern.98 DMLPD, no. 13. The rationale is that the identity of a political candidate becomes wellknown and any investigation regarding background or reputation of the permanent deaconshould be the responsibility of ecclesial authorities so as to avoid any undue or unwarrantedpublicity in the public media. In making his determination to grant written permission, thebishop should investigate the background of the permanent deacon, including his manysocial relationships (e.g., memberships in clubs, organizations) so that nothing wouldbecome an embarrassment to the Church. The bishop should investigate the credit ratingof the deacon so that there is no question of unreasonable indebtedness. He also should beconcerned about fundraising that the permanent deacon, as a political candidate, will haveto initiate, as well as improper reflections that might occur by associating the deacon, as apolitical candidate, with a particular party and its platform.99 Ibid., no. 41; cf. no. 40.100 Ibid., no. 15; cf. CIC, cc. 281, 1274.101 Ibid., no. 16.102 Ibid, no. 20. Examples include videos for baptismal preparation programs, handouts,refreshments for required gatherings, and distinctive clerical garb. It also could includereimbursement for the personal use of and gas for his car in ministry, using IRS mileagestandards and records.103 Ibid., no. 21; cf. CIC, cc. 290-293.104 DMLPD, no. 78.