Most deacons are married and in the Archdiocese of Louisville the wife of a deacon plays a very important role.  Through their Sacrament of Marriage, the couple lives an example of Christ for all to see.  While God calls some to Holy Orders, His call was answered first in the Sacrament of Marriage.  Simply put, the deacon’s priority is family first, followed by work with ministry being last.   

With that said, wives are expected to accompany their husband by attending all classes and the annual retreats.  The wife of a deacon candidate must give her permission at each step of the process up to and including him receiving the Sacrament of Holy Orders.   

In terms of official ministry, there is no specific role for the deacon’s wife.  The deacon’s ordination does not confer any ministerial role to the deacon’s wife.  Yet the unity of the deacon and his wife is a sign to the entire parish of the unity of Christ with His Church.  Many times the deacon’s wife serves the parish or local community in a concrete way herself.  After ordination, the deacon and his wife may work together in various ways to build up the kingdom of God.  The deacon and his wife can show how the obligations of marriage, family, work and ministry can be harmonized in the service of the Church’s mission. 

At the same time, her own spiritual growth is enhanced in the years of formation.  After ordination, there are continuing opportunities available to the wives and widows, such as personal prayer, Scripture study, her personal
ministry, study, sharing hospitality and community building. 

An excellent video on the role wives play in the diaconate is available from the Diaconate office.  We encourage you to view this video if you desirer additional information.