Det särskilda diakonatet. En jämförande studie mellan Equmeniakyrkan och Svenska kyrkan 2018

Abstract

This study is an analysis of the differences and the causes of the differences between Equmeniakyrkan (Uniting Church in Sweden) and Svenska kyrkan (Church of Sweden) concerning the ministry of deaconate. The analysis is based on an overview of theological models for deaconates of the Western tradition. The aim is to identify the structure of the ministry of deaconates in respective denomination in relation to these models as a basis for the practical comparison of the two churches regarding the ministry of deaconate. The result of the study shows that Equmeniakyrkan, with its congregational structure, have three types of ordained deaconates. Members of all the three categories can perform pastoral duties, due to the basic ruling principle of common priesthood. As a Lutheran church The Church of Sweden has an Episcopal structure. The deaconate is a permanent ministry and the ordained deacons are not allowed to perform any ecclesiastical matters due to the basic nature of the rules of Church of Sweden.