"For those who have served well as deacons obtain for themselves a good standing." (1 Timothy 3:13)
 | What is a Deacon? |
The term 'deacon' is derived from the Greek word 'diakonos' which means 'servant'. Hence, a deacon is a male servant of the church ordained to assist the priest in performing religious services. In his first visit to Egypt, St. Mark the Evangelist, a disciple of Christ, appointed worthy Christians as bishops, priests and deacons of the first Coptic Orthodox Church. Guided by the Holy Spirit, St. Mark laid his hands on these men and ordained them to carry out the Heavenly ministry of God. This tradition still exists today, where the residing bishop lays his hand on the individual who is consecrated by the breath of the Holy Spirit which gives him the grace, power and authority to fulfill the duties of his rank. The deacon is then given a new name to indicate a new beginning as God's servant, just as Jesus gave new names to His disciples. Top | Deaconate Ranks |
There are five ranks of the Holy Order of the Deaconate: | Sub-deacon (derived from the Greek work 'epideacon' meaning 'helper' or 'assistant') |
| Chanter (Psalter - derived from the Coptic world 'psaltis' also derived from 'Psalms' which are chanted) |
The general rank of deacon originates from the time of the apostles when they could not attend to each need of their congregation and thus appointed men devout men to assist them (Acts 6:1-6) |  |
Top | Qualifications of Deacons |
In 1 Timothy 3:8-13, it describes the qualifications of a deacon: | Holding the mystery of faith with a pure conscience |
Top | Responsibilities of Deacons |
- ArchMake necessary arrangements for the Church services
- Assign tasks to other deaconso Safe keeper of the church books, vessels and vestments
- Ensures that donations are given to the needy
- Acts as a liaison on behalf of the bishop
- Recommends candidates for the Holy Order of Deaconate
- Takes a role in the ordination
- Help in preparation of the bread, wine, vessels, candles, books and the Sanctuary for the Divine Liturgy
- Keep the order in the churcho Assist the bishop and priesto Hold the chalice of the Blood of Christo Guard the Holy Mysteries during Communion
- Visit and teach the congregation
- Instruct the congregation on actions such as bowing their heads, standing up and giving each one the sign of peace
- Helper to the deacons
- Guard the doors of the church during the Divine services
- Good readers who not only read clearly but understand what they are reading (must read the Word of God constantly and study the meaning)
- Help in the preparation of the vessels before and after the Divine Liturgy
- Learn the hymns chanted in all services of the church
- Lead the congregation in answers to the prayer
| General Instructions for Deacons - View PDF |
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Deacons
