Protodeacon

MARIA GWYN MCDOWELL

A rank of the diaconate, historically the protodeacon is a title of honor given to chief deacons who are not monastics. In contem­porary practice the protodeacon is the senior deacon attached to a cathedral or principal church. The protodeacon is elevated, not ordained, to the new rank. The protodeacon can claim precedence when serving with other deacons. If more than one protodeacon serve together, precedence is given according to the dates of their elevation.

Plate 52 Bishop in the Monastery of St. John on Patmos, Greece, talking to two monks. ILM Image Group/Alamy.

SEE ALSO: Archdeacon; Deacon; Deaconess; Ordination