Definitions

Annual conference The Lutheran Deaconess Conference (all LDA deaconesses are included) meets annually as a larger community. These are typically four-day events. The location of the conference changes each year, in order to allow participation by those who live farther away from the Center for Diaconal Ministry in Valparaiso, Indiana.
Area conference LDA deaconesses meet regularly with others in their geographic area for personal sharing, prayer, study, and support.
Clinical Pastoral Education CPE is nationally recognized as a program that teaches pastoral care skills. CPE is typically offered in hospital settings, where students serve with professional chaplains. CPE provides intensive self-reflection and group process in a clinical setting.
Deaconess A deaconess is a Lutheran woman, formed in community, educated in Lutheran theology, consecrated to serve people in church and society.
Diaconate The group of people (a community of deacons or deaconesses) who engage in diakonia.
Diakonia A Greek word that means “service.” It is used to describe “waiting on tables.” Diakonia is servanthood for the sake of others that gives dignity to others without demeaning oneself. It’s the kind of service that Jesus showed us how to do.
Discernment A lifelong process of seeking God’s guidance. Discernment can lead to decision-making. Discernment is also used to support personal and spiritual growth in a deepening relationship with God.
Education Education includes the college/university or seminary classes that help students gain knowledge about ministry.
Formation Formation includes self-reflection and experiences that help students grow in their deaconess identity and service.
Internship Internship is a one year experience in a paid position as the student engages in professional ministry and reflection
Mentor The deaconess who is assigned by the LDA to support a specific student during the education/formation process.
Roster Each church body sets standards for specific “rosters” (lists of trained and approved workers). While on a roster, church workers are accountable to church body leaders to maintain standards of ministry.
Spiritual Director A spiritual director accompanies one who seeks a deeper relationship with God and who desires to become more aware of the movement of God in one's life. Spiritual directors often have experience and training in discernment and the disciplines of prayer.
Sponsor A deaconess of the inquirer’s choice who assists with discernment. The sponsor might answer as well as ask questions, and may provide a reference for the applicant’s admission portfolio.
Supervised field work You will practice ministry skills and grow in your identity as a deaconess through volunteer activities during your first year in formation. A relationship with a supervisor offers time for you to reflect on personal and professional goals, and to get feedback on your progress.
Week-long formation seminars Orientation and ongoing seminars will be held each year during formation. Time will be used in prayer and worship, group sessions for learning and sharing, individual meetings with the LDA staff, building community with other deaconess students, and time for personal reflection and journal-writing.