This service has always been given to the poor, the sick, and in education. After World War II, in Western Europe, these tasks were taken over by the government. But this did not mean that someone could not offer his/her services. Examples are: people who care for the elderly, the handicapped, refugees, (ex-)prisoners, homeless people, drug addicts; people who fight against women trade, collect money for charity projects, show solidarity with migrants and asylum-seekers, etc.

Since governments have less and less money to spend for care and education, diacony gains importance again.

Diacony, however, is not a one-way activity of caring for people in need. The deacon reports on his/her experiences to the Church and wants to share it with others, including other churches.