deacon

[deacon's bronze cross]
Greek: diakonos, minister

The highest of those in major orders but the lowest in rank of the hierarchical orders instituted by Christ. The Roman Pontifical states his duties thus

  • to minister to the altar
  • to baptize
  • to preach

The diaconate is of divine institution. When in their vestments, deacons wear a stole that wraps across the left shoulder.

see also

Category: New Catholic Dictionary, Terms derived from Greek  |  Trackback