101 Questions and Answers On Deacons

by William T. Ditewig

This timely book provides the general reader with a clear, succinct introduction to the diaconate and addresses the perplexing and commonly-asked questions and myths that have been raised about deacons, their sacramental identity, their functions, and their relationships. Although the position of deacon was commonplace in the early church, the order became a transitional one from the 6th century until Vatican II reinstated the post of "permanent" deacon in the late 1960s. Since then, the diaconate rapidly became the fastest growing of all church vocations. While many Catholics are aware of deacons, most have very little idea why the diaconate was renewed as a permanent order of ordained ministry or even why deacons exist! In addition, more than 90% of deacons are married, which adds to the confusion of Catholics who have only experienced a celibate clergy. Now they are presented with a predominantly married clergy involved in the leadership and service of the Church. This book answers such commonly asked questions · Just who and what is a deacon? · After all these centuries, what led the Council to restore the diaconate as a permanent order of ministry? · What sort of training and formation do deacons receive? · How does a deacon balance family, job, and ordained ministry? · Can a deacon be pastor of a parish? Taken together, these questions explore the role of deacons in the contemporary church, the formation of deacons, what it is like to live as a deacon, and the role of deacons as ministers of the word, the liturgy, and as apostolic leaders in service. †

Genres: Catholic

144 pages, Paperback

First published June 30, 2004

Reviews

[Gil Michelini · Rating 4 out of 5]

If you know little to nothing about Roman Catholic Deacons, this is a book for you.

The author does a good job unpacking Lumen Gentium 29 which brought the permanent deacons back. He obviously speaks from experience in the role. While he tells us a little about himself and specific stories I can't say that I know him any better. I would like to have learned more about the author in this answers but that was not the purpose of the book. It seems that especially when talking about the relationship between a deacon and his bishop, he is speaking from experience.

My only complaint is the price is high for Kindle book. At 118 pages, $8.99 is reasonable for a physical copy but I would not expect to pay more than $1.99 for the Kindle version. That is my only negative for this book.

[A · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good book describing the duties and functions of deacons in the Catholic church. Helpful to understand the diaconate is not a replacement for priests and was revived by the church after survivors of Dachau wrote about their experiences and insights.

[Michael · Rating 5 out of 5]

Helpful insight

What does a Catholic Deacon do, and why? This read provides a rich history of the diaconate and explains the details of how they will serve and help the followers in their Diocese.

[Michael · Rating 4 out of 5]

Redundant in parts but overall a solid introductory book. Great for someone that knows very little about the Diaconate. Probably not the best book for anyone already familiar with the Diaconate and it's various ministries & functions.

[David Christian · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book was easy read, I found a lot of useful information. While I am in the process/beginning of considering the diaconate and serving the Lord closer- I still have a lot of questions along the way. This book helped a lot.Let God's will be done.

[Harry · Rating 3 out of 5]

Quick read. Quite clear. A good survey of the Catholic diaconate. Strong examination of the deacon's ministries of word, sacrament, and charity.

[Josh Dalcher · Rating 4 out of 5]

A quick, clear, insightful read that covered the background and evolution of the permanent diaconate. The question-and-answer format made it a very easy read.

[Brian · Rating 5 out of 5]

Very insightful and helpful review of the Roman Catholic diaconate especially since its resurgence after Vatican II.