A deacon performs pastoral care, social and ecclesiastical services on behalf of the church, institutions and associations. The work is varied and includes pastoral care, education, youth work, family work, group work and work with the elderly.
In your job as a deacon, you work in partnership with a church congregation or a school, nursing home or hospital. Deacons work in collaboration with pastors or on their own.
• palliative and educational services
• diverse church activities with all age groups
• supporting those who are lonely or suffering from poor health or social isolation
• pastoral care
Working as a deacon, it is important to have a great deal of professional knowledge, empathy with people and good interpersonal skills. A willingness to serve and an interest in church work are important factors, as well as working according to the goals of the National Church. In their ministry, deacons often wear certain clothing, a green shirt, an alb, and a stole. To be a deacon, one must have been ordained by a bishop.
Deaconry studies are offered at the University of Iceland, as a study program for a MA degree.
