Synod Diaconate
Why a Diaconate?
- Jesus came among us not to be served, but to serve
- The church strives to be the body of Christ in the world
- A Diaconate can help to remind, inspire, organize and lead the church to renew its commitment to servant ministry
“The Diaconate” is a group of Synod Deacons. Among other things, they visit the sick, teach Bible study, confirmation and Sunday School; manage food pantries, lead prayer groups and support the many other ministries of their congregations.
The first step to becoming a Synod Deacon is to complete an approved educational program. “
Growing in Faith” has been the accepted program for this first step. However, graduating from the
Growing in Faith program does not automatically make someone a Synod Deacon. Candidates must apply to the Diaconate and complete an internship under the supervision of their pastoral supervisor and the Synod Diaconate Council. At the end of the process, approved candidates are “Set Apart” at a special liturgy, and then will be recognized as Synod Deacons.
Synod Deacons are lay leaders called by congregations for a specific ministry and typically work unpaid. Though they are called by congregations, Synod Deacons are rostered and serve the Metropolitan New York Synod. When assisting at worship, they wear special stoles diagonally across their bodies. They have voice but no vote at Synod Assembly. They report annually to the Bishop and their calls must be renewed and approved annually. They gather regularly to support one another and to share information. In all cases, Synod Deacons follow in the footsteps of the servant ministry of the dying and rising Christ.
New Application Process
Applications to the Diaconate will be accepted until September 1st. An orientation will be scheduled for sometime within the first two weeks of October. At this orientation, applicants and their pastoral supervisors will receive details about the requirements for beginning internship. Information about required assignments to be completed during internship will also be shared. If approved by the Synod Diaconate Council, applicants will begin their internships on January 1st.
If becoming a Rostered Synod Deacon is something that you are considering, we encourage you to read the material found under “
Resources” below. An application can be found under “
Forms.”