As Anglicans, we have inherited a rich and robust theology of the diaconal office. We believe that deacons are essential and necessary for a healthy Church. Despite this, our stewardship of the office has not always yielded an equally rich and robust diaconal ministry. Why do we have such a disconnect between theology and practice?…
Alaskan Deacon Argues with God
As part of our True North Campaign, we are publishing articles highlighting the impact of Anglican Compass. Here, we welcome Deacon Craig Daugherty, who shares a story from his ministry in Fairbanks, Alaska. Enjoy! In an isolated place such as Fairbanks, Alaska, I am grateful for the connections, challenges, and renewal that the writings of…
Catechize Like a Deacon
“You have entreated me, brother Deogratias, to send you something in writing that might be of use to you on the question of instructing beginners in the faith. As you say, in Carthage, where you are a deacon, those who are to be given their initial grounding in Christian faith are often brought to you…
Never Enough: The Beautiful Insufficiency of the Diaconate
Deacons cannot absolve, bless, or consecrate. These “ABCs” of the diaconate are often the first and most consistent way that people describe the order today, inadvertently defining the most foundational of the Holy Orders by what deacons cannot do. I have attempted to add parochial reports to the list, but it neither follows the alphabetic…
Not “Just” a Deacon
Handshakes and metal plates I grew up around deacons. In my Southern Baptist upbringing, deacons were most commonly observed at the doors of the church offering handshakes and smiles. Otherwise, they were found in their other natural habitat: at the end of a pew passing or taking a metal plate. Often, this was an offertory…
Are You Called to Ordained Ministry?
My work involves assisting people in what we call the discernment process, which asks “Am I called to Ordained Ministry?” People often want to know a good way to discern an answer to this question. I’ve adapted some material that I’ve written for use in our diocese, that may be helpful. This article doesn’t deal…
