Deacons and Diaconal Ministers

Diaconal ministers are United Methodist laypeople who lead in service ministries. The United Methodist Church no longer consecrates new diaconal ministers. However, many diaconal ministers are still in active service. If you are a diaconal minister, visit this section of the Board of Ordained Ministry Handbook for information on how you relate to the annual conference.
If you feel called by God to be a layperson in a ministry of love and justice, check out the office of home missioners & deaconesses.
Provisional Member Deacon Formation
If you are a deacon in provisional membership, consider participating in General Board of Higher Education and Ministry's Formation Event. It's held during the even-numbered years. If your conference residency program focuses almost exclusively on elders, you'll find this helpful. Meet other deacons, reflect on the ministry of the diaconate in the United Methodist Church (UMC) and world, prepare for ordination interviews, and meet UMC agency staff who can provide resources for your ministry. Register here for the 2018 event.
Need More Information?
Connect with us via email or phone for any questions or concerns you might have. A full listing of staff is also available.