When the Presbyterian Church in America (PCA) began in 1973, it was decided that the new denomination would have only male deacons and elders. This decision was embodied in the Book of Church Order in several places: "In accord with Scripture, these offices are open to men only" (BCO 7-3). "To the office of deacon, which is spiritual in nature, shall be chosen men of spiritual character..." (BCO 9-3). There is no mention anywhere in the BCO of a "deaconess," but rather "Women in the Church" was created.

Now, in 2008, there are many people asking that our Book of Church Order be changed to authorize female deacons, or alternatively deaconesses. Overtures have been sent to the General Assembly that will meet in Dallas in June of 2008 asking for a study committee to recommend changes to the BCO. (See this link for an explanation of WHY this situation has developed.)