My parish cannot afford an assistant priest but I need help. May I request a deacon?
Expectations for a deacon are quite different from the expectations for a priest or even a transitional deacon engaged in parish ministry. The deacon’s primary ministry is to inspire and engage others in participation in God’s mission of restoration and reconciliation. This primarily involves inspiring others to ministry in the world, which often involves serving the poor, sick, weak and lonely, usually outside the church. The deacon’s role in an assigned parish is to encourage and model the ministry of service that every Christian promised at baptism, and to represent the service of all Christians through the deacon’s liturgical role.
How do I request to have a deacon assigned to my parish?
A request may be made in writing to Bishop Ahrens’ office. A conversation will take place to explore the parish’s expectations vs. the expectations of deacons in this diocese. The bishop’s assignment of deacons depends on geography, special circumstances and demand and is usually a 3 year assignment.
Who supervises deacons?
Deacons are directly accountable to Bishop Ahrens. In a parish, the deacon is supervised by the rector or the priest in charge. Expectations for the deacon’s assignment are detailed in an agreement signed by the deacon, priest and bishop. (See sample Letter of Agreement) Priest and deacon meet at least monthly for supervision. Deacons are encouraged to report to Bishop Ahrens in writing at least twice a year.
Do deacons preach?
Deacons are encouraged to preach in the parishes where they serve, preaching on subjects related to servant ministry and the needs of the world. The number of times a deacon preaches a year is up to the priest and the deacon in conversation. In general, this varies between once a month and twice a year.
May a deacon lead worship when I am away?
Deacons lead prayer offices. “Deacon’s masses,” where the deacon serves communion from the reserve sacrament in the absence of a priest (BCP p. 408), are not permitted in this diocese. Deacons do not preside at weddings or baptisms, but may preside at burials.
Are deacons always assigned to a parish?
While deacons are typically assigned to serve in a parish for three years, in CT we have had several different ways that deacons seek and serve those in need in our communities. Deacons have been assigned to healthcare rehabilitation facilities such as Gaylord Hospital in Wallingford CT, at Seabury Center for Successful Aging in Bloomfield, Church by the Pond at Bushnell Park Hartford.
If a parishioner wants to know more about becoming a deacon, where should I refer him or her?
Contact the Canon for Lay & Ordained Vocations. More information on the ordination process may be found here.