Diaconates a novel idea that could boost the Church in Ireland

The sight of married men baptising babies and presiding at weddings in the Catholic Church will be novel to the faithful.

If the introduction of permanent deacons goes well it could be a much-needed opportunity for renewal.

If it is handled badly it runs the risk of alienating parishioners, upsetting priests, and infuriating those men who have volunteered and been trained to serve as deacons.