Deacon's Customary - The Episcopal Diocese of Central New York

Once the setting of the table is completed, the deacon turns and bows to the Bishopto indicate readiness for consecration.Consecration & Post CommunionThe deacon is to be familiar with the contents and lay-out of the altar book.The deacon is to point and turn the pages of the altar book during the EucharisticPrayer.The deacon stands to the presider‘s left during the Great Thanksgiving.If chanting, Bishop Adams prefers the solemn tone over the simple tone.When there is an elevation at the doxology at the end of the canon and/or theinvitation, the deacon raises the chalice.After all have received communion and prior to the post communion prayer,remove the burse, veil, chalice, paten, Gospel Book and any other items from thealtar. The deacon performs ablutions after the service is completed.Place the altar book in the center of the altar. Prior to the post-communion prayer,the deacon moves to the place where the Bishop‘s miter and crosier are and afterthe post-communion prayer, the deacon is to give the miter and crosier to theBishop for the blessing.7. The Deacon and the Reserved SacramentThe deacon, along with the priest, is a minister of the reserved sacrament for those who,for reasonable cause, cannot be present at a public celebration of the Eucharist. Theservice for "Communion Under Special Circumstances" on page 396 of The Book ofCommon Prayer is used. The deacon, upon request from the priest, may train andsupervise Eucharistic ministers.8. The Deacon and Christian InitiationIt is appropriate for the deacon to participate in the preparation of candidates for HolyBaptism and Confirmation/Reception/Reaffirmation, especially in regard to the candidates'intention to promise to seek and serve Christ in all persons and to strive for justice andpeace. In keeping with ancient tradition, the deacon may administer the water in thebaptismal liturgy.9. Pastoral OfficesThe deacon typically does not preside at pastoral offices, although there is a diaconal roleat services such as weddings, funerals, Baptisms, and the anointing of the sick, as outlinedin The Book of Common Prayer. When a supply priest is called to provide a service suchas a Eucharist at a funeral and a deacon has been the pastor to the deceased and/or thefamily, it is especially appropriate for the deacon to participate in the service.6