[Wiser now]

I was a member of an American Baptist church that had Deaconesses. We prepared communion to be served once a month and kept track of those who were sick and the shut-ins. We took food to those recovering from hospitals stays, etc.
The church needs such service, and it doesn’t infringe on any Biblical restrictions with regard to women teaching men.

[x_plus_one]

A deacon in the RC tradition can give communion. That is where the line is drawn in the sand...

[SuziQ]

Catholic women already perform these services as Extraordinary Ministers of the Eucharist, taking Holy Communion to the homebound, or even to those in the hospital, praying with them, as they receive Christ's Body and Blood. They also serve in other 'ministries' in Parishes such as Bereavement groups, and helping parents prepare for the Baptisms of their children. I see no need to create another layer of 'orders' for what these women are already doing.

The only ones pushing for 'Deaconesses' are those who want a toehold into Holy Orders.