Diaconate

While the constitutions and bylaws of some congregations in our synod describe the responsibilities of a deacon or a board of deacons, those positions are like others in a congregation: they are staffed by volunteers who serve for a limited term of duty.

Perhaps the form of ministry that resembles a diaconate in our synod is staff ministry. Martin Luther College in New Ulm, Minnesota provides the education for staff ministry students, and calling bodies have the freedom to provide titles of their choosing for the individuals who serve them. Some of those individuals have the title of “deacon” or “deaconess.”

If you are interested in more information on staff ministry in WELS, this link will provide that.