The Diaconate: A Full and Equal Order

by James Monroe Barnett

This book is a highly readable, comprehensive study that has established itself as the definitive work on the diaconate. Drawing upon original sources, the book provides valuable insights into the development of the office of the deacon in the early church and situates it within the context of the church's total ministry. Dr. Barnett contends that a radical change in the nature and understanding of the church's ministry took place in the fourth century. A ministry that had included the whole people of God in a horizontal, organic structure gave way to one that was clerical and hierarchical. This change, among other factors, eventually transformed the diaconate into an inconsequential, transitional office on the way to the priesthood. Responding to the present-day revival of the diaconate in the Roman Catholic, Episcopal, Lutheran, and other churches, Barnett calls for a restoration of the office to its original place as full and equal order, thus re-creating the great symbol of the servant ministry that Christ gave to all the church. James Monroe Barnett, now living in retirement in Omaha, is the former rector of Trinity Episcopal Church, Norfolk, NE.

272 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1981

Reviews

[Daniel]

I am seeking ordination in the Anglican Church, having come from ordination in a Pentecostal denomination. The ordination of a "permanent deacon" was a new concept to me, so this book was recommended. It has been helpful to forge the historical view and then press for a fuller understanding of what the diaconate should mean today.

As I pray for discernment in this process, the ordination to "permanent deacon" has become something for serious prayer in my life.

[James Prothero]

Lots of good information. Very scholarly. But also so exhaustive, one finds oneself skipping through long paragraphs covering what has already been covered.

[Arron]

Reads like an extended dissertation but worth the slog and the extensive detail for a refreshing look at the historical character of the diaconate.

[James]

A bit repetitive at times, but overall an excellent survey of the historic diaconate and apology for a restored diaconate.

[Mary]

Great overview of the diaconate, both in the early church and now. I'd highly recommend this to anyone considering becoming a deacon.