***Proclaiming the Gospel This is the focal point of the Liturgy of the Word and the single most important act performed by the deacon in the Eucharist. Accordingly, in most churches the Gospel reading is accompanied by some form of ceremonial, ranging from a simple move by the deacon to the place of the reading, to a Gospel procession with servers and incense. The people stand. The proclaiming of the Gospel should be done with care and be the focus of attention of the assembly.
Tag: Diaconate in Ecumenical Perspective
Methodist deacon David Clark and Methodist presbyter Maurice Staton have produced an interesting response to the recently published Diaconate in Ecumenical Perspective, edited by Deacon Michael Jackson. Michael says in his foreword to the paper, I note in particular their emphasis on the diaconate’s missional role in building a ‘kingdom community’ (a favourite phrase of … Continue reading TOWARDS A RENEWED DIACONATE
In the post-Christian era, deacons may provide an effective connection to a society largely indifferent to the gospel.
Christian Churches, East and West, especially in the past fifty years, have revived the diaconate as a permanent form of ordained ministry rather than a brief stage on the way to the presbyterate. These essays examine this development from the perspectives of history, theology and practice, showing ecumenical convergence on the renewal of an ancient order.
As deacons we are pretty starved of resources about our vocation and ministry. But there's good news. Last year there was an international ecumenical conference on the diaconate in Saskatchewan: see report here. As a follow-up, a book is coming out in August this year with all the talks, to be called 'The Diaconate in … Continue reading NEW BOOK ON DIACONATE COMING SOON
CofE Network of Distinctive Deacons 