Service of mercy as the most typical activity of permanent deacons

Abstract

By the sacrament of Orders, deacons also, in communion with the Bishop and the diocesan presbyterate, participate in the same pastoral functions, but exercise them in a different way, serving and helping the Bishop and priests. This participation, inasmuch as it flows from the sacrament, means that deacons serve the People of God in the name of Christ. The service of mercy is their most typical activity, and is directed to helping and supporting all members of the particular Church to be able to participate in the life and mission of the Church, in a spirit of communion and according to their gifts. The service, above and beyond diocesan or parochial works of charity also embraces works of charity in the field of Christian education; animating speakers, groups of young people in the Church and professional laypeople; the promotion of life at every stage and of the transformation of the world according to the Christian spirit. In these areas their service is particularly valuable because, at the present time, the spiritual and material needs of man, to which the Church is called to respond, are very diverse. For this reason, they must strive to serve everyone without discrimination, giving particular attention to those who are in most need and to sinners, following the example of Christ the Servant, whom they represent. Their service of mercy must enable man to experience the love of God and lead him to conversion, and to open his heart to divine grace.