Legal Definitions - diaconus

The term diaconus refers to a deacon, a member of the clergy in various Christian churches. Historically, and particularly in legal Latin, this term designated an individual holding a specific ecclesiastical office with defined duties and a recognized legal status within the church hierarchy and, at times, within civil society.

Here are some examples illustrating the application of this term:

• Example 1: Ecclesiastical Property Records

  In a medieval charter detailing the endowment of a monastery, a clause might specify that certain lands are to be managed by the "diaconus of the chapter" for the benefit of the poor. This indicates that the deacon, by virtue of their office, held a legally recognized role in the administration of church property and charitable trusts.

• Example 2: Canonical Law and Discipline

  An ancient ecclesiastical court record might document a proceeding where a "diaconus" was accused of neglecting their liturgical duties or violating a vow. The court's jurisdiction over the individual, identified by their clerical rank, demonstrates the legal accountability associated with the office of a deacon under canonical law.

• Example 3: Historical Civil Status

  During periods when clergy enjoyed specific exemptions from military service or certain taxes, a government census or registry might list individuals by their ecclesiastical titles. A record identifying someone as a "diaconus" would legally establish their status as a cleric, entitling them to applicable privileges or subjecting them to particular regulations distinct from laypersons.