Deaconess

usgb/ˈdiːkənəs/
noun

A woman who is a member of the Christian church and has special duties, like looking after the poor and the sick.

The deaconess visited the elderly woman every day to assist with household chores.
Visual representation of "deaconess" - A woman who is a member of the Christian church and has special duties, like looking after the poor and the sick.

Often appears as...

  • ordained deaconess
  • deaconess ministry
Definition 1 of 2
Visual representation of "deaconess"
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Church Role

Understand that a deaconess takes on a service-oriented role within Christian churches.

Illustration for Church Role
Sister Mary was celebrated for her dedication as a deaconess to the church's charity programs.
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Not Clergy

A deaconess is not a priest but serves in supportive and charitable church functions.

Illustration for Not Clergy
Although she was a deaconess, she did not give sermons, focusing instead on community care.
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Historical Role

Research how the role of a deaconess has evolved over time in different Christian denominations.

Illustration for Historical Role
The early church had deaconesses, but their roles differed from the modern support they offer now.
Visual representation of the word "Deaconess"

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