What is the difference between a priest and a deacon?

Both priests and deacons are ordained ministers who have received the Sacrament of Holy Orders, but they serve at different levels with different faculties. Priests receive the second degree of Holy Orders. They can celebrate Mass, hear confessions, anoint the sick, and (with the bishop's permission) confirm. They typically serve as pastors of parishes and represent Christ as 'head' of the community. Latin Rite priests take a promise of celibacy. Deacons receive the first degree of Holy Orders. There are two types: (1) Transitional deacons — seminarians ordained as a step toward priesthood. (2) Permanent deacons — men (often married) who are ordained to a permanent ministry of service. Deacons may proclaim the Gospel, preach homilies, baptize, witness marriages, preside at funerals outside of Mass, and perform various works of charity and administration. They cannot celebrate Mass, hear confessions, or anoint the sick. The word 'deacon' comes from the Greek diakonos, meaning 'servant,' and the diaconate was established by the apostles in Acts 6:1-6. If a permanent deacon's wife dies, he may not remarry without special permission from the Vatican.