Women's diaconate

Based on current discussions surrounding the (re)introduction of female deacons this paper examines historical theological and religious educational approaches to female deacons. In addition findings from a qualitative survey are included thus capturing the pastoral perspective on the topic. This paper shows that women whose commitment is fundamentally valued and recognised are still (always) unable to participate equally in the offices of the Church. Although they perform many diaconal and pastoral tasks the path to the diaconate and subsequently to the priesthood is blocked for them.