Deaconess (noun)

1. A female member of the clergy who is ordained to assist in the administration of sacraments and the performance of other duties in some Christian denominations.
2. A woman who has been ordained in certain Christian denominations to assist in the administration of sacraments and perform other duties similar to those of a deacon.

Origin:

From the late latin diaconissa, from greek diakonissa, from diakonos meaning servant or minister.

Examples:

1. Deaconesses were an important part of the early Christian church.
2. The deaconess played an important role in the administration of sacraments.
3. Deaconesses were responsible for the care of women and children in the early church.
4. The deaconess was a respected member of the church community.
5. Deaconesses were often in charge of charitable works and helping the poor.