The role of deacons
It has been interesting over the past couple of weeks, as a deacon, to read the concerns of readers about the role deacons play in a parish, currently as men and maybe in the future as women.

The ordained priest does not undermine the priesthood of all believers, and in the same way the ordained diaconate does not undermine the diaconate of all believers. In baptism we become a priestly people called to a ministry of service (diacona).

The diaconate has its origins in the New Testament and was restored as a permanent ministry by the Second Vatican Council. At its heart is a ministry of service to the Church and the world. It is not solely a liturgical role; the deacon is also called to be a minister of the word and of charity, social action and justice.

Most of the deacons I have met do not see their role as supplanting the role of the laity or to become “mini-priests”, but rather see themselves as a bridge between altar and pew, and as enabler of the rightful role of the laity in the ministry of the Church. All deacons have been laymen themselves and have close family including wives who are members of the laity, so they are well aware of the laity’s role.

Mark Woods
Worthing, West Sussex