In the Orthodox Church a subdeacon is the highest of the minor clergy, higher than the cantor, lower than the deacon. Although there is ordination of a deacon, a bishop can "borrow" someone and "promote" him to act and vest as a subdeacon without ordination. Subdeacons are usually found right behind a bishop as his personal assistants.
Catholic subdeacons were abolished in 1972. Until that time, subdeacons used to be considered major clergy, like deacons and priests and bishbops.
“Although there is ordination of a deacon, a bishop can “borrow” someone and “promote” him to act and vest as a subdeacon without ordination.”
In the GOA, we ordain our subdeacons. I am quite sure the Antiochians do too. is the “borrowing” a Slavic practice?