The deacons exercise of charity and justice extends the loving hand of Gods constant love and mercy to all who are in need. The Vaticans Congregation for Catholic Education has called this work ';the ministry most characteristic of the deacon. In The Deacon's Ministry of Charity and Justice, Deacon William Ditewig focuses on this ministry as a constitutive element of the nature of the Church itselfalways flowing from the ministries of Word and Sacrament and leading back to them, never apart from them. Along with a rich exploration of the scriptural, historical, and theological foundation of the deacons practice of charity and justice, Deacon Ditewigone of todays foremost experts on the permanent diaconatedevelops specific and concrete principles for exercising these ministries faithfully, authentically, and effectively. The Deacon's Ministry series explores the three fundamental diaconal ministries identified in the teaching of Vatican II: those of the liturgy, of the word, and of charity to the people of God (Lumen Gentium 29). This series, written by three highly regarded permanent deacons, offers a rich combination of theology, spirituality, and practical and effective guidance. Deacons and those in diaconal formation, their families, the bishops and priests they work with, and the people they serve will welcome it.