Ministries
Deaconship
"Deacons must be reverent, not double-tongued, not given to much wine, not greedy for money, holding the mystery of the faith with a pure conscience... For those who have served well as deacons obtain for themselves a good standing and great boldness in the faith which is in Christ Jesus."
1 Timothy 3:8–13
Roles & Requirements
Learn More About Deaconship
Chanters Role and Ordination Requirements
- The main role of the chanter is to learn and chant the hymns of the Church, with understanding and with the Spirit of God (Psa. 46:7, 1 Cor. 14:15).
- In general, chanting during worship was shared with the whole congregation as well as the Reader.
- Candidates should have basic proficiency in Coptic letters and be able to exhibit talent of learning hymns by chanting basic congregational responses (Agios, Alleluia, This is the Day, etc.).
- While there is no set minimum age for chanter, it is required that a chanter be able to stand reverently throughout the Divine Liturgy and require no assistance.
Source: Los Angeles Coptic Orthodox Department of Christian Education
Readers Ordination Requirements
- Should have a good reading proficiency and deep understanding of the Holy Scriptures, always increasing in the knowledge of God (Col. 1:10).
- Should have consistent reading and regular studying of the Bible to be able to teach and read to the congregation.
- Should have basic knowledge of the Bible, the liturgical life (including basic hymns), and the fathers.
- Those interested to serve in Sunday School or English Youth meetings must pass the Servants' Certification exam.
Source: Los Angeles Coptic Orthodox Department of Christian Education
Subdeacons Duties and Ordination Requirements
- Assisting the deacon at the altar, e.g. washing the hands of the clergy, tending to the church books and clergy vestments.
- Preparing the Church for services by attending to the books, filling up oil lamps, preparing the censer, filling up water jugs, etc.
- Watching the doors of the Church to prevent entry of animals, heretics, and false teachers.
- Keeping the order in the church during prayer and aiding in the distribution of aid to the needy.
- He must be recommended by the people and priest(s) as to his good deeds and must be consistent in confession.
Source: Los Angeles Coptic Orthodox Department of Christian Education
Deaconship Vestment (Tunic) General Guidelines
- Tunics should only have crosses on them — no saints pictures are allowed.
- Should always be clean, ironed, and kept in good condition.
- Archdeacons and full deacons wear the Padrashal (Stole) on their left shoulder.
- Readers & sub-deacons wear the Padrashal crosswise but with different colors.
- Chanters do not wear the Padrashal.
Source: Los Angeles Coptic Orthodox Department of Christian Education