Note: The expression is derived from a former custom in the Congregational churches of New England. It was part of the office of a deacon to read aloud the psalm given out, one line at a time, the congregation singing each line as soon as read; — called, also, lining out the psalm.
DEACONESS
Dea"con*ess, n. (Eccl.)
Defn: A female deacon; as: (a) (Primitive Ch.) One of an order of women whose duties resembled those of deacons. (b) (Ch. of Eng. and Prot. Epis. Ch.)
Defn: A woman set apart for church work by a bishop. (c) A woman chosen as a helper in church work, as among the Congregationalists.
DEACONHOOD
Dea"con*hood, n.
Defn: The state of being a deacon; office of a deacon; deaconship.
DEACONRY
Dea"con*ry, n.
Defn: See Deaconship.
DEACONSHIP
Dea"con*ship, n.
Defn: The office or ministry of a deacon or deaconess.