Deacon Denise has a new title! Denise has always been venerable in my book, but now it’s official. She is the Ven. Denise LaVetty, Archdeacon of the Diocese of New York.
But don’t worry. Before I even explain what an archdeacon is, let me assure you that Denise is not going anywhere. She will remain our parish deacon (thank God!), even though it’s atypical for an Archdeacon to have a parish affiliation. We are a lucky bunch.
The role of the Archdeacon goes way back but has changed over time. In England, the Archdeacon was typically a much-feared figure, a priest who would be sent out by the Bishop to take care of disciplinary and other difficult property-related issues in parishes. A visit from the Archdeacon was not a welcome thing.
Now, and especially in the United States, the role of Archdeacon is most used for someone who has oversight and responsibility for the training and continued life in the church of deacons. Here in the Diocese of New York, Denise is the first deacon to have this title. (Yes, it’s a little ironic and confusing that archdeacons are typically priests.) Go Denise!
For the past 11 years, Deacon Denise has held the position of “Director of Deacon Formation and Transition” for our diocese. Her change in title is a recognition of that continued work. Yet now, her responsibilities are expanded to include a robust effort in recruiting new deacons. This means Denise will be on the road, making parish visits all over the diocese two Sundays a month. She will be with us at Incarnation the other two Sundays a month.
I don’t have to tell you how much Deacon Denise is a gift to our congregation and to me. I am thrilled to celebrate her here at Incarnation and also at the Cathedral of St. John the Divine when she is “installed” as Archdeacon by the Bishop in worship. Stay tuned for details!
And please join me in congratulating Denise in thanksgiving to God for her very rich ministry in this place and beyond.
Adrian+