Frequently asked questions:

Who is a deacon? He is an ordained minister. The ministry of the Deacon in the Diocese of Lafayette is one of charity, of witness and proclaiming Good News, and of leadership in prayer and liturgy. The deacon is committed to the Bishop and to serve the Church of the Diocese of Lafayette through ordination to this permanent office of service.

What is the role of the deacon? Deacons exercise their distinct ministry in communion with the Bishop and also with the priest. It is important to note that the priesthood and the diaconate are neither identical nor competitive, but complementary ministries. The diaconate is not an abridged form of the priesthood, not a "stepping stone" to the priesthood, but a distinct and full order in its own right. Deacons should understand then, that the diaconate is not to be thought of or exercised on the model of the priesthood.

What does a deacon do? The following are some of the main functions of a deacon but by all means are not inclusive:
         Ministry of Liturgy:
                • administer Baptism
                • custodian of the Eucharist
                • bring Viaticum to those who receive the sacrament of the sick
                • administer sacramentals
                • officiate at marriages, funerals and burials
         Ministry of the Word:
                • proclaim the Gospel
                • preach the "good news" by word and lifestyle
                • instruct and exhort the people
         Ministry of Charity:
                • assist through service to the sick and poor
                • a leader in social works, education, family life
                • ministry to youth and aged
                • administration of diocesan or parish offices and programs

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