Mission: The English word deacon comes from a Greek word meaning “servant.” Deacons help the ministerial staff serve the physical and spiritual needs of the congregation.
Attributes Needed An effective deacon should have the following attributes: ● Be a caring person who is sensitive to the needs of others. ● Have good communication skills. ● Observe appropriate boundaries and confidentiality in dealing with others. ● Have the heart of a servant. ● Be committed to the church’s ministry of meeting the needs of individuals in the congregation.
Duties 1. Deacons are expected to attend and participate in monthly meetings.
2. Each deacon regularly checks in with a “flock” or group of individuals from the congregation. When the “flock” or their family members are seriously ill, have been hospitalized, have died, or are experiencing some other physical or spiritual crisis, deacons respond to their needs. Responses might include prayer, telephone calls, cards and messages, and/or personal visits to the flock member’s home or hospital.
3. On particular Sundays throughout the year, each deacon serves as greeter. After performing a few easy tasks to get the sanctuary ready for worship, greeters hand out service bulletins and greet members and visitors as they arrive. During the service, greeters collect the offerings, assisted by three other people they have asked to assist them.
4. In special circumstances, deacons may help facilitate group events that relate to the pastoral care of congregants, such as receptions following memorial services for church members.
Interested in Becoming a Deacon? Deacons for 2024 include Jim Canty (chair), Sandy Clark, Nancy Kniffin, John Mercer, Margaret Perkins, Diane Reid and Ann Marie Woffindin.
New deacons are always welcome. If you would like more information or are interested in serving as a deacon, please talk with Jim Canty or email him at [email protected].