What are the duties of Deaconesses and Cohospitae?
The Celtic Church has an emphasis on blessings. The right hand of every person Baptized in a Celtic church was anointed with Chrism in the form of a cross so that the person could bless themselves, food, family, home, tools or whatever they were about to use. Celtic Bishops bless anyone who takes on duties in the Church. Women are no exception. Among the titles mentioned by ancient Celtic Christian writers are Co[n]hosptiae and Deaconesses. They are not Sacramental/Eucharistic ministers but have other duties. Neither has a Sacramental function. Conhospitae are assistants to the Clergy who do good works outside of the altar. Some are chanters or choir directors, some are church school teachers. A Deaconess performs various functions. She chants, and assists with the Baptism of women. She is also in charge of parish catechesis and office administration. In event that the Pastor perceives the need to have another present during an interview or even a Confession, the Deaconess will observe
