Being a Deacon Today: Exploring a Distinctive Ministry in the Church and in the World

by Rosalind Brown

A theological explanation and practical handbook for those preparing for a diaconate in today’s church. All too often the time spent as a deacon is seen simply as the prelude to priestly ordination. Yet the Bible defines three orders of ministry - deacon, priest, and bishop - each with its own distinctive characteristics and responsibilities. In Being A Deacon Today , Brown explores the three places where deacons minister (the church, the world, and at the margins), the three strands of their ministry (in liturgy, in pastoral care, and as catechists), and the three actions of their ministry (praying, loving, and remembering).

This book, excellent for classroom use and for transitional and permanent deacons, will restore a fuller understanding of the diaconal ministry and nurture deacons in their work and spiritual life.

Genres: Spirituality, Christian

Paperback

First published July 1, 2005

Reviews

[Becky Schommer · Rating 2 out of 5]

It’s a difficult book to rate, as it’s applicability depends largely on the extent to which you can contextualize what’s written. Though my church exercises the three offices, we don’t use traditional liturgy in our church services or expect deacons to perform as much duty as seems to be outlined in the book. Rosalind Brown makes reference to deacons who hold jobs outside of the church, but I’m not sure how anyone could balance well the expectations outlined here in addition to family and work.

The book does offer me a great deal to discuss with my own bishop, however. That I’m grateful for. I would be hesitant, however, to use it instructionally outside of an Anglican or Church of God context.

[Jordan Kinsey · Rating 2 out of 5]

The book has a well-defined overall structure but the construction of the sentences and paragraphs is kind of awful. I had to re-read several passages and sometimes still couldn’t make sense of it. Also, at this point be advised that a more accurate title would be Being a Deacon in 2005. A lot has changed in the last two decades.

[Fred Matthews · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was given this book by the Bishop of my Diocese at the start of my discernment. It provides excellent insights on the holy order of Deacon and what it means to be a Deacon in today's world. I would recommend that anyone who may be sensing a call to the Diaconate to read this book.

[susanna suchak · Rating 5 out of 5]

A good start for wannabe deacons

An excellent and thorough exploration of what it means to be a vocational deacon I the Anglican communion in thus new millennium.

[Anne Hammond · Rating 5 out of 5]

Beautifully written, and very helpful— especially if you are just starting the discernment process.

[Janet Daniels · Rating 3 out of 5]

This book is full of little nuggets worth noting. However, it is also rather dry. Reading with a purpose helped me.

[Greg · Rating 4 out of 5]

An explanation of the diaconate ministry from the view of the Anglican Church in England. This also provides insight to the office of Deacon in the Episcopal Church in the U.S.