Catholic Archdiocese of Johannesburg

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Permanent Diaconate

The permanent diaconate, or "married diaconate" as it is sometimes called, is a relatively new feature in the life of the South African Catholic Church - though not much newer than anywhere else in the world. It involves a vocation to service (the word "Diakonia" meaning serve) as lived in a lifelong commitment to the Church community, but in a way that is less radical than priesthood. The idea is that men who are already married and financially self-sufficient, but have sufficient time to share with the community, train as both theological and pastoral assistants to their parish priest, and are then ordained to the task.

A deacon's stole

Just as a priest does not have full authority in himself, but shares in the priesthood of the bishop, so deacons derive their function from the bishop and their local priest. Their task is less sacramental than a priest's, and more pastoral. This pastoral commission includes preaching the gospel in mass and assisting with baptisms and weddings, but is primarily aimed at social service within the community, such as visiting the sick, house-visiting, catechetics and pastoral project management.

Permanent deacons are usually required to provide for their own financial needs and are assigned to single parishes for the long term to facilitate this (unlike priests who are moved occasionally). They need to be capable of some fairly serious studies (part-time) and they must have time to spare to dedicate to parish functions.

The call is a serious one - more than just a call to be a pastoral assistant. Deacons are ordained ministers and share in much of the trial and benefit of such consecration. Their role is an essential bridge between priesthood and the laity, and they are uniquely empowered to help both the church to understand and empower the laity, as well as the laity to participate in the life of the Church.

For more information contact the Vocations Director

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Rev. John Finlayson

Please note: the word is "DIACONATE" NOT deaconate. Thus Deacons are part of the diaconate.

-- John Finlayson on December 12, 2004 11:40 AM (view details)