What is the function of a Deaconess in the Lutheran Church you understand they are often Nurses Are they celibate like RC Nuns?

Answer 1

A Lutheran deaconess is a member of the diaconate "order" or community. The diaconate is an ancient movement with its roots in the New Testament. The titles "deacon" (for men) and "deaconess" (for women) come from the ancient and Biblical Greek word "diakonos" which means servant. "Let the one who would be great among you be your servant (Greek: diakonos)" -Gospel of St. Mark 10:43. The "sisters" are theologically trained and consecrated to a life of prayer and service. A deaconess in the Lutheran Church is someone whose main vocation is to minister to members of the Church and greater community. A Lutheran deaconess can get married, but some choose a life of celibacy so that they can devote their lives only to their vocation. Some of the types of works a sister does are caring for the poor or marginalized and those in need. They are teachers, nurses, counselors, coordinators and caretakers for the young, elderly, sick, homeless, dying, orphaned, imprisoned and disabled. Some Lutheran parishes formally "call" a deaconess to serve their parish or as a way for the parish offer the deaconess' services to the community. There are also deaconess communities where the sisters live, pray, worship and work collectively.