John E. Booty (1925–2013)

John Booty's book "The Servant Church: Diaconal Ministry and the Episcopal Church," is in some ways dated, having been published in 1982, but in most respects I think it's still quite relevant.

I recommend this as a foundational reading for anyone who might be considering a path toward becoming an ordained deacon. The focus of the book is primarily toward the vocational diaconate (those who will be ordained deacons in addition to a secular career), as contrasted with the transitional show more diaconate (those who are ordained as deacons as a step to becoming priests). Even having said that, there is value for a transitional deacon in reading this, both from understanding the history of the diaconate and from understanding better how priests and deacons might best work together to do the work of the Church.

Throughout the book the focus is on "diakonia," Christ's call to serve -- to serve the poor, ill, oppressed, hungry, etc. Booty establishes the basis for this by providing a Biblical background. He goes on to give a broader historical perspective on the evolution of the Church and the diaconate. The reader then is carried through to modern times, always being reinforced in the idea of diakonia. The book concludes with examples of the work done by several vocational deacons.

It's worth noting that the work of the deacons he cites is still every bit as needed -- and perhaps even more so -- than it was nearly 20 years ago when the book was written. show less

An excellent publication showing the form for Morning Prayer, Evening Prayer and Holy Communion, as well as other offices, during the time of Elizabeth I. Fortunately, this also has clear type and modern spelling, which puts the emphasis on the words used, not the quaint spelling and vague print used in other publications of this type.

INDEX; CHAPTER NOTES

MAP; INDEX; FURTHER READING; BIBLIOGRAPHY