Diakonia, as the churches' social action and healing ministry, has received increased attention over the last few decades. The ecumenical reflection on diakonia generally focuses on: Ecclesial identity, emphasizing the mutual relation between what the church is and what the church does Holistic nature and interdisciplinary approach Prophetic mandate, publicly defending the cause of the poor and suffering in the struggle for justice. Liberating Diakonia presents and reflects critically on these issues. The reader can follow these issues through twelve essays under three main headings: 1. The Theology of Diakonia 2. The Diaconal Ministry 3. Diakonia as Integral Part of Mission Through the book, special attention is given to questions of hermeneutics and the methodological approach. How is it possible to establish a scientific discourse on diakonia, as disciplined reflection on praxis?