After three decades, the permanent diaconate, renewed according to the wish of Vatican II, has timidly become the object of theological reflection. Experimentation is not over, but ecclesial experience provides the occasion to reflect theologically on the re-establishment of the diaconal ministry. The author examines just what has been re-established. He recalls the principle elements foreseen by the Fathers of Vatican II in what concerns the diaconate, and their goal, which was both pastoral - the needs of the Church - and doctrinal - continuity with the Council of Trent. He then offers some perspectives for helping theological thinking with regards to the diaconate, and finally evokes the actual state of the practice of this ministry.
