the sacrament of Holy Orders, the issue of a reformed or renewed diaconate was mentioned. But
what form should this renewed diaconate take? In the words of the Bishop of Ostuni,
“I desire the function of the subdeacon and deacon, diligently collected from the writings
of the fathers and decrees of the councils, to be restored and put to use, especially the
functions of deacons. The Church has always used their services, not only in ministering
at the altar, but in baptism, in care of hospitals, of widows, and of suffering persons.
Finally, all the needs and concerns of the people are mediated to the bishop by
deacons.” 33
In his remarks, the bishop points out the sacramentality of the diaconate. Not only was the role of
the early deacon to care for widows and the infirmed, but also to minister at altar, baptism and
the care of the suffering, perhaps a reference to anointing of the sick. The same bishop would
also recommend a longer interval of diaconate service before priestly ordination, which could be
seen as a temporary “permanent” diaconate. Others agreed in various degrees with a restoration
of the order. 34 The discussion was not one sided, certainly there were voices in opposition to the
restoration of a permanent diaconate or even an expanded diaconate. Indeed, there were voices
which inferred, “the devil induces the legislation of those things which destroy the priesthood
under pretext, that a deacon should preach and other things of this kind.” 35 Many believed that
the diaconate was just a part of the process which led to the priesthood. Discussion continued;
notable Jesuit scholar Alfonso Salmero would contend that, “the diaconate was instituted not for
service of profane tables but for ministry at the altar…not instituted for ministry of profane
tables but heavenly” 36 Discussion would lead to consideration of a statement by the council in
July of 1563.
33
Echlin. The Deacon in the Church: Past and Future, 100.
Ibid.
35
Ditewig. Emerging Diaconate, 85.
36
Echlin. The Deacon in the Church: Past and Future, 101.
34
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