Diakonikon

M. C. STEENBERG

The term Diakonikon normally refers to the south side of the altar apse in an Orthodox church, where vestments and books are kept, and where altar servers may prepare various items during the services. It often includes a small counter and sink, as well as a bench where deacons and servers may at times be seated (as they are not permitted to sit in the main altar).

Diakonikon can also refer to the deacon’s service book (comparable to the priest’s Hieratikon), which contains the fixed portions of the principal divine services with the priest’s and people’s parts abbreviated. Precise contents vary, but customarily include the deacon’s parts at the divine liturgy, Matins, and Vespers, and other regular offices.