About

Identity, Mission and History 

The Josephinum Diaconate Institute of the Pontifical College Josephinum offers educational programs through distance learning – in both English and Spanish – to diaconal aspirants and candidates, permanent deacons and their spouses, and lay ministers serving or preparing to serve the people of God through ministry in the Church. Its mission is to strengthen pre- and post-ordination diaconate formation on a national and worldwide basis.

 The Institute was inaugurated by the Pontifical College Josephinum – a Roman Catholic seminary in Columbus, Ohio – in 2007, in further fidelity to its own mission of providing formation and education for men aspiring to the priesthood. Founded in 1888, the Josephinum was granted pontifical status in 1892 by Pope Leo XIII and is the only pontifical seminary outside of Italy. The Apostolic Nuncio to the United States serves as its Chancellor and the institution is governed by a Board of Trustees. The Josephinum serves (arch)dioceses in the United States as well as select (arch)dioceses overseas.