Das Ständige Diakonat als Bereicherung für die Botschaft der Kirche in der Lehre von Papst Franziskus. Pastoral-theologische Reflexion

Abstract

In his pastoral and theological reflection the author analyses some of Pope Francis’s statements regarding the permanent diaconate in the Church. He presents evangelisation and pasto-ral service of permanent deacons in the context of changing reality under the influence of laicisation and secularisation. Pope Francis appreciates their service for the Church and for the people around them. Though he warns against expanding the activities of the deacon beyond his expertise. By this he particularly means the domain of the presbyter in countries with a lack of vocations to priesthood. The Pope emphasises diaconia in which permanent deacons should play an important role.