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Deacons are called to be visible ambassadors of God’s love in the world–especially amongst those we and our wider society have pushed to the margins. Deacons play a vital, prophetic role in bringing the needs of the hungry, the poor, the unhoused, the neglected, the lonely, and those suffering injustice, to the local congregation so that we may respond with God’s love. 

Within the congregation, it is a Deacon’s role to provide a focal point for, and to call all of God’s people to join in living this servanthood ministry, for this too, is a part of the ministry we are all gifted at Baptism. 

If this sounds like a ministry in which you are interested, the Diocese of Kootenay offers a process of discernment, training, and licensing for those who are being called to serve God as Deacons. 

Discerning God’s call to the Diaconate
The following are the first steps in the process towards discerning your call to the diaconate.
  • Typically, those interested in pursuing diaconal ministry meet with and discuss their interest with the Incumbent Priest and/or Wardens
  • After this initial conversation, and if you still want to proceed, the Priest and Wardens will discuss the possibility of supporting the application with Parish Council
  • If Council deems that the Congregation can support the application, you next meet with the Diocesan Bishop 
  • After meeting with the Bishop, the Diaconal Commission will sends an application that you need to fill out
  • They will also separately send a set of questions and guidelines to the Incumbent and Wardens for the formation of a group (or groups) to support you and the discernment process. 
  • Once you return the application to the Diaconal Commission, they will arrange a first interview
Training for Ministry

Deacons require the successful completion of specific training and theological study approved by the Bishop.

You can begin your studies even before indicating interest in becoming a Deacon. As part of your discernment, you might choose to pursue study and training to deepen your faith and your sense of God's call in your life. This might include taking part in Education for Ministry, or other courses in biblical study, theology, or pastoral care.

To find out more about available opportunities, you can contact the Rev. Douglas Lewis (kmf@kootenay.info), coordinator of the Diocese of Kootenay's Ministry Formation program.