Antwerp, Churches and Tourism
Tourism Pastoral, Diocese of Antwerp (TOPA vzw)

In the early Christian Church, the deacon was a man or woman ordained to practise Christian mercy (care of the poor, the sick, prisoners, strangers). In the course of history, the ordination of deacon became an ordination that preceded priesthood. Since the Second Vatican Council [1962-1965], the ministry of deacon has revived. Now the ‘permanent deacon’ is a man, married or not, who in addition to the permanent care of the weak, also has a role in preaching and proclamation. He may also administer two sacraments: baptism and anointing of the sick.