orders according to the text, since deacons are “strengthened by sacramental grace.” The ancient threefold ministry of the deacon is stressed more strongly than in the second draft. Instead of the rather limited list of functions of the former draft, this one describes the deacon’s ministry as “a service of liturgy, word and charity to the People of God,” which he exercises in communion with the bishop and his presbyterate: one ministry, with the responsibilities shared among the three orders. The