A Hub for Formation and Fellowship
Annual NDICE event has been building the diaconate for 50 years
Deacon Corby Valentine Comments Off on A Hub for Formation and Fellowship
The National Diaconate Institute for Continuing Education has long been a vital resource for deacons and their wives, providing opportunities for formation, spiritual renewal and community building. What began in the mid-1970s as a modest three-day gathering in Collegeville, Minnesota, has evolved into a nationally recognized platform for formation and fellowship. NDICE’s early years reflected the growing awareness of the permanent diaconate as a vital ministry within the Church, and its success signaled a need for ongoing opportunities to enrich the lives and vocations of deacons. Over time, the annual event outgrew its initial venue, moving first to the University of Notre Dame and later to Xavier University, reflecting its expanding reach and the increasing demand for its programs.
Even the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic could not diminish NDICE’s mission. After a two-year hiatus, the organization roared back with renewed vigor, embracing its role as a cornerstone for the diaconate’s ongoing development. NDICE’s ability to adapt and thrive in changing times underscores its commitment to supporting deacons and their families in navigating the complexities of modern ministry. Today, NDICE continues to provide deacons with opportunities to reflect on their sacred calling, deepen their faith and build lasting relationships within the diaconal community, ensuring that they are equipped to serve the Church with compassion and competence.
NDICE’s commitment to the ongoing formation of deacons aligns with the vision outlined in the National Directory for the Formation, Ministry, and Life of Permanent Deacons. The Directory emphasizes the importance of ongoing development across four dimensions: human, spiritual, intellectual, pastoral. NDICE addresses these through conferences, workshops and fellowship opportunities that empower deacons to grow holistically in their vocation. The sessions cover a wide range of topics, including theological developments, growing pastoral skills and innovative approaches to evangelization, ensuring that deacons are well prepared to meet the diverse needs of the Church and society.
Fostering a Sense of Fraternity Among Deacons
Beyond professional and spiritual development, NDICE fosters a sense of fraternity among deacons. The conference is more than an educational event; it is a space for connection and support. For many attendees, it is an opportunity to share experiences, form lasting friendships and find encouragement in their shared mission. Programs designed specifically for deacons’ wives further enhance this sense of community, acknowledging the integral role they play in the life and ministry of their husbands. These sessions provide resources and support tailored to their unique experiences, helping families thrive in their shared vocation.
Looking ahead, NDICE continues to adapt to the needs of deacons and their families. It serves as a beacon and guide, offering spaces where participants can reflect on their sacred calling, deepen their faith and share insights into the challenges and joys of ministry. NDICE’s mission is not only to enrich the lives of individual deacons but also to strengthen the broader Church community, ensuring that Christ’s light shines brightly through their work.
In 2025, NDICE will host its annual conference July 20-23 at Holy Trinity Parish in Fairview Heights, Illinois. The theme will focus on the full spectrum of vocations, exploring the unique calls to clerical ordination, consecrated religious life, family life and the single vocation. The event will feature esteemed speakers, including Deacon Greg Kandra, editor of The Deacon’s Bench blog; Deacon James Keating, Ph.D., professor of spiritual theology at Kenrick-Glennon Seminary in St. Louis; two U.S. bishops; and Rhonda Gruenewald, founder of Vocation Ministry. This conference provides an unparalleled opportunity for deacons and their wives to deepen their understanding of their vocation while gaining practical insights for ministry.
To learn more about NDICE, its mission and how to register for the 2025 conference, visit NDICEonline.org.
DEACON CORBY VALENTINE is president of National Diaconate Institute for Continuing Education. A deacon in the Diocese of Belleville, in Illinois, he currently serves St. Joseph Catholic Church in Freeburg and St. Agatha Catholic Church in New Athens.
