In the Footsteps of Phoebe
Cheryl D Naumann
2008
In the Footsteps of Phoebe by Cheryl D. Naumann is a comprehensive guide to the story of the diakonical office as it relates to our church body. From industrial Germany to rural Indiana, Naumann traces the formation of the modern diaconate in the context of the Lutheran Church Missouri Synod.
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The Office and Role of the Lutheran Deaconess in the Lutheran Church- Missouri Synod
Kristin Wassilak
1996
Wassilak’s piece begins by discussing the Biblical foundations of the auxiliary office of deaconess. She then provides a broad but brief overview of deaconesses in the early church, the decline of the office, then the “re-formation” of the diaconate in early 19th century Germany. Wassilak expands on the “present form and functions of the female diaconate.” Perhaps most interesting in this work, however, is the data Wassilak gathered. Presented at the end of the paper, she provides a fascinating snapshot into the role and thought of deaconesses at the end of the 20th century.
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The Deaconess
Janet Grierson
1981
Grierson provides a history of deaconesses in the Church of England. Written in response to confusion over the role of deaconesses in the church, Grierson provides a historical perspective on the diaconate office across the pond.
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Deaconesses: An Historical Study
Amie Georges Martimort
1986
Aime Georges Martmimort presents a history of deaconesses from the first century to today. Martimort does not confine her work is to a particular geographical area but follows the role deaconesses play in the Church as Christianity spreads throughout the world.
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On Call: Deaconesses Across the World
Catherine Herzel
1961
Although somewhat dated, Catherine Herzel’s short book provides an accessible overview of who a deaconess is and what she does. Readers new to the idea of a deaconess may find the opening section of the book “What is a Deaconess?” particularly helpful.