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A Brief Apologia for DeaconessesTraditionally recognized in Anglican circles by her distinctive blue habit with its white collar, unique cross, and oftentimes veiled, a Deaconess is a woman who has been called to lay ministry in the Church. She has been educated and trained to fulfill the duties of her vocation. She has dedicated herself to lifelong service in the Church and has been Set Apart to the Office of Deaconess by the solemn laying-on of hands by the Bishop. She has, in faith, vowed to prayerfully execute the duties of her office in obedience to her Bishop and “those over her in the Lord.” (Read more about the history of Deaconesses.)
Traditional Duties
To assist in the work of the Parish,
Mission, or institution to which she may be
appointed, under the direction of the Rector
or Priest-in-charge; or, if there be none
such, to perform such functions as may be
directly entrusted to her by the Bishop.
Functions
To give instruction in the Christian
Faith.
Under the Rector or the
Priest-in-charge, to prepare candidates
for Baptism and for Confirmation.
To assist at the administration of Holy
Baptism; and, in the absence of the
Priest or Deacon, to baptize infants.
Under the Rector or Priest-in-charge to
organize, superintend, and carry out the
Church's work among women and children. With the approval of
the Bishop and the incumbent, to read
Morning and Evening Prayer (except such
portions as are reserved for the Priest)
and the Litany in Church or Chapel in
the absence of the Minister; and when
licensed by the Bishop to give
instruction or deliver addresses at such
services.
To organize and carry on social work;
and in colleges and schools to have a
responsible part in the education of
women and children, and to promote the
welfare of women students. Null |
"By virtue of her office, properly understood and executed, the Deaconess inherently undertakes a certain level of ministerial authority both within and on behalf of the Church, especially among women and children. Nevertheless, she is always subject to the ecclesiastical authority of the men placed over her in' the Lord." - from the Handbook for the Order of Deaconesses
For more information about the Order of Deaconesses, email iinfo@recdss.org. |
To care for the sick, the afflicted, and
the poor.
