Deacons

Ordained to word, service, compassion and justice

Deacons are ordained clergy in The United Methodist Church who lead ministries that connect the church and the world. Through service, advocacy and leadership, deacons equip people of faith to respond to the needs, hopes and concerns of their communities.

Deacons are ordained to a lifetime ministry of word, service, compassion, and justice. They are called to serve both within the church and beyond its walls, helping the church engage with the world in meaningful ways.

Some deacons serve in local congregations in specialized ministry roles, while others serve in extension ministries such as chaplaincy, social services, education and nonprofit leadership.

The word “deacon” means servant and messenger, reflecting a ministry rooted in action, advocacy and care.

Learn More About the Ministry of Deacons

This resource outlines the path to becoming a deacon, including candidacy, education, and ongoing service expectations.

Deacons uniquely serve as a bridge between the church and the world. They:

• Proclaim the gospel through teaching and preaching
• Lead ministries of compassion and justice
• Connect congregations with community needs
• Equip others for service and advocacy

Through their leadership, deacons help the church respond faithfully to real-world challenges and opportunities.

Within the local church, deacons:

• Lead worship and assist in baptism and Holy Communion
• May preside at the sacraments when appropriate
• Preach and teach
• Lead outreach and mission efforts
• Conduct weddings and funerals
• Send the congregation into the world in service.

Their role strengthens the church’s connection to its community and expands its impact.

Deacons often serve beyond the local church in settings where people experience deep need and seek hope, including:

• Social service agencies
• Hospitals and chaplaincy settings
• Schools and universities
• Nonprofits and community organizations

In these roles, deacons represent the church in the world while also bringing the world’s needs back to the church.

Ordination as a deacon is a lifelong covenant of service, accountability and care. Deacons are appointed to ministry and carry their vows wherever they serve, living out a calling grounded in servant leadership and rooted in baptism.

Begin Your Discernment

• Read The Christian as Minister
• Speak with a pastor, deacon or district superintendent
• Participate in candidacy mentoring and formation

Become a Certified Candidate

• Be active in a United Methodist context for at least one year
• Complete your conference’s candidacy process
• Meet requirements outlined in the Book of Discipline.

Complete Educational Requirements

• Earn a bachelor’s degree
• Complete an approved graduate degree or specialized ministry education
• Fulfill theological studies requirements.

Continue Toward Ordination

• Demonstrate gifts for service and leadership
• Complete application, interviews and evaluations
• Be commissioned and later ordained by a bishop.

Is God Calling You?

If you feel called to serve as a deacon, your gifts can help connect the church to the needs of the world and lead ministries of compassion and justice.

Start the journey today. Connect with your pastor or conference leadership to learn more.