ROLE OF THE DEACONESSES IN THE ANCIENT TRADITION OF THE CHURCH AND SOCIETY

Authors

  • Nicu Dumitrașcu University of Oradea

Keywords:

Cheirotonia, Cheirotesia, Cappadocia, Deaconesses, Liturgical Ministry

Abstract

The problem of deaconesses in the history of the Church has aroused much interest for theologians and researchers over time, regardless of denomination or spiritual guidance. The terminological confusion between cheirotenia and cheirotesia in the early Church has brought a confusion regarding their status within the ecclesiastical hierarchy. Although there are conflicting views on their liturgical role, we argue that the status of deacons were different from the deaconesses; their responsibilities being rather in the social area and catecheticalpastoral activities, especially among women.

Author Biography

Nicu Dumitrașcu, University of Oradea

Dr Nicu Dumitrașcu is Professor of Patristics, Missiology and Ecumenism at the Faculty of Orthodox Theology, Episcop Dr. Vasile Coman, University of Oradea. He also gave lectures in Croatia, Finland, Belgium and Lebanon, and he is author of many articles in several journals including "Acta Theologica", "Studia Monastica", Ecumenical Review", "Theology Today", and "Dialog: A Journal of Theology". The most recent books are Christian Family and Contemporary Society (with Bloomsbury T&T Clark (2014), and The Ecumenical Legacy of the Cappadocians, with Palgrave Macmillan (2015).

References

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Published

2016-12-31

How to Cite

Dumitrașcu, N. (2016). ROLE OF THE DEACONESSES IN THE ANCIENT TRADITION OF THE CHURCH AND SOCIETY. Journal of Dharma, 41(4), 373–388. Retrieved from https://dvkjournals.in/index.php/jd/article/view/440