What is a transitional deacon?

Steven PutmanQandALeave a Comment

Question: What is a transitional deacon?

Answer: There are two types of deacons in the church. Both are members of the clergy. Both have the same liturgical role. Both have the service of the community as their primary work. One is called a permanent deacon, usually a married man ordained as a deacon with no intention of becoming a priest. They preach, baptize, witness marriages, conduct funeral services, and look after the needs of the poor. They also visit the sick and take Communion to them, although they cannot celebrate the sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick. They might also assist the pastor in his administrative duties. Permanent deacons are usually well known and respected in their communities and have roots there.

A transitional deacon is one who functions as a deacon for a period of time prior to ordination as a priest. His diaconate assignment serves as a kind of internship of ordained ministry. During his year or two as a deacon, he will learn the practical aspects of parish life, getting a firsthand look at the life of a priest. His work has a different focus than a permanent deacon in that he is looking forward to ordination as a priest.

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