Diagonal Ministry Anyone?

I blogged about discernment earlier this spring - and about the call of a Diaconal Minister. Since most people don't know what that is, much less how to say it - I've elected to write a bit of an explanation as I understand Diaconal Ministry.

1.) Do not confuse the word Diaconal with Diagonal (they sound very similar). It is easy to do - though difficult to build up the back and abdominal muscles to actually stand that way. Here is the part where I sound like a teacher: Diaconal comes from the Greek word for service (Diakonia)

2.) The ELCA Candidacy materials explain Diaconal Ministers as those "called by this church to positions that exemplify the servant life and seek to equip and motivate others to live it."

3.) I understand Diaconal Ministry as 'serving in the gap' where the church is missing. Others claim it the intersection of the Church and the World. Regardless of how we define the boundaries - Diaconal Ministers serve serve serve in ministry that is outside the box and often outside the church-box.

4.) Diaconal Ministers select a specialty area in which to focus. Some work with English as a second language, in public schools with special education programs, as social workers, as youth and family ministers, working with those experiencing homelessness, in synod offices, and as the Churchwide Nurse for the ELCA.

5.) Where Ordained Clergy receive a call to "Word and Sacrament," Diaconal Ministers receive a call to "Word and Service."

6.) I hope this helped those of you wondering what Diaconal Ministry is all about &/or those of you who are interested in exploring this roster of the ELCA.

*Thanks to Marc for sharing this amazing graphic.