Form and Function of the Hierarchical Degree of Deacon in the First Four Centuries

Abstract

The present text examines the development of the form and function of the clerical rank of deacon during the first four centuries of Christianity. During this period, the deacon was considered to be ‘one soul in two bodies’ with the bishop. Patristic evidence discusses the role of the deacon in the context of Christ’s mission. Although the relationship between the deacon and the bishop was not one of subordination, the distinction between the two ranks became more pronounced in the subsequent centuries. The conclusion is that while the clerical rank of deacon held significant ecclesiological importance, its original form has not been preserved.