What are the differences between a Director of Christian Education and a deaconess?
A D.C.E. is primarily a life-span educator. D.C.E.’s lead the educational programming and structure for a congregation. A deaconess specializes in spiritual caregiving. She may lead programs in the area of caregiving and service to the community. A deaconess also gives special attention to issues faced by women. A deaconess teaches God’s Word, but she is not often the education coordinator for the congregation. There may be situations where the duties of the two offices look like they overlap. Some large congregations have a D.C.E. and a deaconess who have distinct responsibilities. Half of deaconesses serve in institutions; D.C.E.’s usually serve congregations, with the exception of outdoor education.
