Living as a deacon
A deacon is an ordained minister of the Church with specific functions and duties. His ordination is the sign of his commitment to Christ and to the Church community. Through the Sacrament of Holy Orders, a deacon receives the sacramental grace to fulfil his role of serving others. Bringing Jesus to the world, he enriches it by his presence and his charisms. One with Christ, he shares this relationship with family, co-workers, and the community. In his ministry of liturgy, word, and service, a deacon presents to the world a new challenge and a new hope.
The term "deacon" means "servant". This service takes the form of assisting the Bishop and the priest, but is also directed to the deacon's own brothers and sisters and the whole Church. Deacons can baptise, witness marriages, perform funeral and burial services outside of Mass, distribute Holy Communion, preach the homily and are obligated to pray the Divine Office (Breviary) each day.