Christchurch diocese has almost completed consultation about the desirability of introducing the permanent diaconate.The final decision lies with Bishop Barry Jones, who instigated the consultation through his Council of Priests.
A discussion paper setting out the history and role of the permanent diaconate and posing several questions was sent to parish and pastoral area councils.
The questions related to the roles and practical ministries for deacons; the support which could be offered; how a deacon's family would fit into his life and work; and other aspects about introducing the ministry.
Deacons would not replace parish pastoral assistants but would complement them in ways yet to be worked out, the paper said.
Mike Stopforth, the bishop's deputy for the pastoral plan, told NZ Catholic the consultation ran from April to the end of June.
Before that, discussions were held with the Christchurch Council of Priests and at regional meetings of priests.
Restoration of the permanent diaconate was a reform of Vatican II after an absence of 1200 years. Their ministry is a threefold service of the liturgy, the Word and of charity.
Deacons can celebrate funerals and burials outside Mass and are ministers of Baptism and Holy Communion. They can also preside at Sunday celebrations in the absence of a priest, but cannot celebrate the Eucharist.
Hamilton diocese has had permanent deacons for nearly 20 years and Auckland diocese has men preparing for the permanent diaconate. +++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
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