Deaconess in the Coptic Orthodox Church

The word "Deacon" in old Syriac is "Shammas" meaning Servant. So, Deaconess means also Servant, a servant to serve others.  The difference between them is that a deacon serves in the church liturgical services and has as important role in it, but the deaconess is a social servant, as we will read, and is not involved in the church services, i.e. the liturgy, vespers, matins, or any other priestly service.

Table of Contents:

• Issues to be Discussed in the Research
• The Holy Scriptures
• Requirements for Deaconess
• Constitutions of the Holy Apostles and Deaconess
• Duties for Deaconess
• The Rites of Deaconess