Deacon
The first of the three orders of ordained ministry.
A deacon is a member of the first of the three orders of ordained Christian ministry, after which come priest (or presbyter) and bishop. In Catholic practice the diaconate exists in two forms: the transitional diaconate (a step toward priesthood) and the permanent diaconate (a stable state of life, open to married men). Orthodox deacons may be married (provided the marriage occurred before ordination). Anglican deacons follow either a transitional or permanent path depending on the diocese. The deacon's traditional duties center on the proclamation of the Gospel at the Eucharist, the service of the poor, and assistance at the altar.