subdiaconate

The subdiaconate is an order in the Catholic Church, historically considered a major order, though its status has varied throughout history. In the Latin Church, it is now considered a "minor order" in the Roman Catholic Church, though it remains a major order in Eastern Catholic Churches. Historically, a subdeacon was a minister who assisted the deacon in liturgical duties, particularly in the solemn Mass. His role included preparing the altar linens, carrying the paten and chalice, and singing the Epistle.

The subdiaconate was a required step for ordination to the diaconate and priesthood in the Latin Church for many centuries. However, Pope Paul VI, in his 1972 motu proprio Ministeria Quaedam, suppressed the subdiaconate as a major order in the Latin Church, leaving only the diaconate and priesthood. He stated that the functions previously held by subdeacons could be entrusted to lay ministers. Despite this, the subdiaconate continues to be conferred in some traditionalist Catholic communities that adhere to the pre-Vatican II liturgical rites.

In Eastern Catholic Churches, the subdiaconate remains a major order, and individuals are ordained to this role. The specific responsibilities and vestments of a subdeacon can vary between different Eastern rites. The historical significance of the subdiaconate lies in its place within the hierarchical structure of the Church and its integral role in the liturgy for much of Christian history.