diaconate

[ dahy-ak-uh-nit, -neyt ]

noun

1. the office or dignity of a deacon.
2. a body of deacons.

diaconate

/ -ˌneɪt; daɪˈækənɪt /

noun

1. the office, sacramental status, or period of office of a deacon

Word History and Origins

Origin of diaconate¹

From the Late Latin word diāconātus, dating back to 1720–30. See deacon, -ate ³

Word History and Origins

Origin of diaconate¹

C17: from Late Latin diāconātus; see deacon

Example Sentences

Yet he simultaneously distinguished these lay ministerial roles from the “ordained” ministries of the priesthood and diaconate, which remain male-only.

From No Straight News

Hence the revival of the female diaconate in its multiplication of sisterhoods.

From Project Gutenberg

It might well be made a text-book for candidates for the diaconate, or at least in theological colleges.

From Project Gutenberg

He had been deposed from the diaconate and from the priesthood for his immoral and lewd life.

From Project Gutenberg

The bishop had admitted him to the diaconate in Sydney, and now at Paihia ordained him to the priesthood.

From Project Gutenberg

It was then but very seldom that a man chosen to the diaconate abandoned it for a higher function.

From Project Gutenberg

Related Words

• priesthood