Dana Jones, the editor of Response Magazine, is in the process of becoming a deaconess. They have at least a bachelor's degree or the equivalent and work in a church-related or helping profession, such as teaching, social work or community development. They must complete a list of biblical and theological studies. Once commissioned, a deaconess finds her own job, which is then approved by the bishop of her conference. While many deaconesses do not work directly in local churches, they usually are connected to one, according to Purkey.
Deaconesses often do volunteer work with churches as well.