Diakonia (διακονία) is a Greek word meaning service, ministry, or care. In the New Testament, it refers to Christlike acts of compassion, justice, and practical ministry.

Key Scriptures

• Acts 6:1–6 – The first deacons oversee the service (diakonia) of food distribution.
• Mark 10:45 – Jesus came “not to be served but to serve.”
• John 13:1–17 – Jesus models diakonia by washing the disciples’ feet.
• Matthew 25:31–46 – Serving “the least of these” is serving Christ.

Diakonia as a Core Expression of the Church

Diakonia is not limited to acts of charity. It also includes working for systemic justice, advocacy, and peacebuilding, especially alongside people who are marginalized or harmed by unjust systems.

Scriptures that support this dimension

• Micah 6:8 – “Do justice, love kindness…”
• Isaiah 1:17 – “Seek justice, rescue the oppressed…”
• Luke 4:16–21 – Jesus announces liberation for the poor and oppressed.

In many Christian traditions, including Lutheran liturgy, those who are baptized commit to a life shaped by service. These baptismal promises frame diakonia not as an optional ministry, but as a core identity of the baptized people of God.

Baptismal Promises Related to Peace and Justice

These commitments often include:

   •       Proclaiming Christ through word and deed

   •       Caring for others and the world God made

   •       Working for justice and peace

This final promise, to work for justice and peace, is deeply connected to diakonia. It calls the baptized to:

   •       Stand with people who are poor or vulnerable

   •       Confront systems that cause harm

   •       Advocate for peace, reconciliation, and human dignity

   •       Embody Christ’s healing presence in the world

The Deaconess Community and Diakonia

This love calls us to serve all of God’s children with commitment and compassion. Once we are invested as Sisters in this Community, our calling is no longer optional. We are