Deacon

Deacon is a role in the Christian Church that is generally associated with service of some kind, but the specific duties can vary widely among different denominations and churches. The word "deacon" is derived from the Greek word diákonos (διάκονος), which is a standard ancient Greek word meaning "servant", "waiting-man", "minister" or "messenger".

History

The title deacon has a long and complex history within Christianity, with different roles and responsibilities being associated with the term at different times and places. The role of the deacon was first established by the Apostles in the New Testament of the Bible, specifically in the book of Acts, chapter 6. Acts 6 describes the appointment of seven men by the Apostles to assist with the distribution of food and aid to the poor. This is often considered the first example of the deacon role in the Christian Church.

Roles and Responsibilities

In many Christian denominations, deacons serve as an ordained clergy role, often serving under the direction of a priest or pastor. The specific duties of a deacon can vary widely, but often include tasks such as assisting with the administration of sacraments, preaching, teaching, and serving the poor and needy.

In some denominations, such as the Roman Catholic Church, the Anglican Communion, and the Lutheran Churches, deacons can be ordained to the priesthood after a period of service. In other denominations, such as many Baptist and Pentecostal churches, the role of deacon is a lay position, not requiring ordination.

See Also

• Priest
• Pastor
• Ordination
• Christian Church
• Roman Catholic Church
• Anglican Communion
• Lutheran Churches
• Baptist Churches
• Pentecostal Churches

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