Table 1. Historical Summary of Diaconal Functions: 20
Synoptics
Diakonia constitutive of all discipleship;
leadership in diakonia constitutive of
Apostolic ministry. (Mark 19:43-44; 23:11;
Luke 22:26; 14:11; 18:14; Matt 20:26-27;
25:31-46
Not limited to diakonia: official ministry
flexible in response to pastoral needs, linked
to apostolic ministry (Acts 6)
Acts
Paul/ Pastorals
Diakonos as co-worker with apostolos or
episkopos; emissary, messenger. Proven spiritual,
community leaders. (Rom 16:1; Phil 1:1; Tim 3)
Ministry of teaching and prophecy; linked with
episkopos. (Didache)
Possible constitute with bishops ruling council in
some churches. (Ignatius and Polycarp)
Part of divinely ordered structure; overall
community leadership in support/collaboration
with bishop. (Ignatius)
Symbolize Jesus Christ linked with episkopoi and
presbyteroi; act as an agent or ambassador of the
Church. Minister of the chalice; proclaim the
Gospel; announce parts of the eucharistic service;
serve entire ecclesia.
Administer the distribution of alms to the poor
and needy. Serve as part of the community’s
ruling council. (Polycarp)
Administer the eucharistic bread and wine to all
present and absent.
The apostolic roots of church order; initial
association of deacons with the Seven. (Iranaeus)
Be the “eyes” of the bishop in all matters; keep
order in the assembly. Baptize on par with
presbyters with bishop’s authorization.
(Tertullian)
“Shepherd the people” with the bishop; the
bishop’s “hearing, mouth, heart and soul”; bishop
and deacon as father and son. Administration of
justice; guard the doors and keep order.
(Didiscalia Apostolorum)
City of Rome divided into seven districts each
assigned to a deacon. Extraordinary ministers of
Ca. 95
Ca. 96
Ca. 115
Ca. 140-150
Ca. 185
Ca. 200
Ca. 235
Ca. 250
20
Cf. William Ditewig. The Emerging Diaconate, 62-65.
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