Since Vatican II and the restoration of the permanent diaconate, it has been possible for any diocesan bishop to have deacons who are permanent, rather than just deacons on their way to the priesthood. As of 2021, the Roman See had 137 permanent deacons in her service, and 17 transitional deacons who were ordained to the priesthood for the diocese of Rome that year. (2021 Pontificio Annuario)  For centuries, however, the office of the Roman deacon held by St. Lawrence has continued in another way, as well. Each of the Cardinal electors of the Pope is assigned a Roman “titular office” based on the early divisions of Rome into suburban dioceses, parishes and administrative regions. Thus a man who is made a Cardinal receives such an honorary title, whether of Cardinal Bishop, Cardinal Priest or Cardinal Deacon. In doing so he is expected to perform an office of service for the Church, which both anciently and today, includes serving, advising and electing the Bishop of Rome, who is also the Pope.