The chief deacon: Originally an archdeacon was the chief attendant of a bishop, who, through the scope of his duties in relation to the services of the church and the administration of charity, gradually acquired a rank above the priests and next in importance to the bishop.

In the English Church, the archdeacon is appointed by, and gives assistance to the bishop, superintends the rural deans, and holds the lowest ecclesiastical court with the power of spiritual censure.