What does a deaconess do?
Deaconess ministry varies depending upon the needs of the setting and the deaconess’ own gifts and abilities.

A deaconess might:

• Teach or lead Christian education programs;
• Recruit and/or train volunteers, empowering and equipping others for service;
• Organize and/or facilitate small groups;
• Encourage and/or plan meaningful worship, devotions, or prayer time;
• Coordinate social ministry activities, reaching out to those who are marginalized;
• Help a congregation in its work with all ages – children, youth, adults, and families;
• Respond to times of special concern – illness, grief, disabilities, or life transitions – bringing God’s healing touch to people in need.

Deaconesses combine faith and service to church and society.

What kind of qualifications does a deaconess have?

The LDA offers a flexible education and formation process which allows students to progress at their own pace. Plans are individualized and designed to meet the student’s particular growth needs.

• Relationship with the deaconess community;
• Theology courses at the undergraduate or graduate level (LDA students have studied theology at the Concordia’s, at Valparaiso, at other Lutheran universities or seminaries, in LCMS or ELCA Lay Ministry programs, and at other institutions.)
• Specialized ministry courses;
• Supervised field work (9 months);
• Internship in a paid and supervised setting;
• One unit of CPE (Clinical Pastoral Education) or equivalent;
• Deepening of spiritual and prayer life;
• Development of attitudes and vision for ministry to the whole people of God.

Some deaconesses bring professional backgrounds such as:

• Nurses or health care providers
• Educators
• Social workers
• Counselors
• Chaplains
• Church musicians
• Youth directors

Others bring expertise such as:

• Multi-cultural or diversity backgrounds
• Spiritual direction
• Business or administration
• Care for senior citizens
• Child care
• And more…

What does the ministry setting provide?

• Salary and benefits (check with your church body for suggested salary and benefit guidelines for professional church workers or your agency’s salary and benefit package);
• Interview and moving expenses;
• Partnership in ministry and guidance about your setting;
• Time and support for participation in deaconess events.

What’s the next step?

• Determine if you want a deaconess or an intern (click here for Internship FAQs)
• Prepare a description of the ministry your setting hopes to provide
• Work with the LDA to identify some deaconesses who are ready to serve with you
• Call the LDA, 219-464-6925, or e-mail: deacserv@valpo.edu