A liturgical practicum for deacons?

I spotted this notice on an Orthodox website, and thought something like this might benefit Roman Catholic clergy, too—both priests and deacons:

The Eighth Annual Diaconal Liturgical Practicum — a program held in conjunction with the Orthodox Church in America’s Diaconal Vocations Program (DVP) and St. Vladimir’s Orthodox Theological Seminary — will be held Sunday, June 22 through Wednesday, June 25, 2014 on the seminary campus in Yonkers, NY.  The four–day program will focus on intense practical liturgical training for deacons and lay diaconal candidates.

During the program, practical liturgical training will be supported by the celebration of the Divine Liturgy and other services, while intensive workshops will provide participants with the skills needed to serve effectively as an attentive server, deacon, or priest. In addition, focused presentations will augment the deacon’s understanding of his place in the liturgical life of the Church and his broader vocation as a symbol to the faithful of the diakonia of Jesus Christ.

“This practicum is highly recommended by the Holy Synod of Bishops for participants in the Church’s Diaconal Vocations Program,” said Archdeacon Kirill Sokolov, director of the DVP and leader of the liturgical workshops for the practicum. Archpriest Dr. Sergius Halvorsen, Assistant Professor of Homiletics and Rhetoric at Saint Vladimir’s Seminary, will lead sessions on public speaking, teaching, and preaching, as well as chanting and vocal technique.

Curious? Read more.