As you may know, the current state of diaconal ministry in the CRC is being reviewed. Diakonia Remixed: Office of the Deacon Task Force is a team of people appointed by Synod, who are evaluating what is currently happening and what should be happening in diaconates across North America. They will identify gaps, and offer suggestions on what should be changed to enable deacons to be more effective in their ministry.

This fine group of folks realized that they were given a tall mandate. They also knew that they couldn’t possibly presume to speak on behalf of all the diaconates or about diaconal ministry without actually giving voice to the churches and people who observe or participate in this work on a regular basis.

Enter – the survey. 

Yes, this survey (available both online and in paper form) is a way for the task force to gather the thoughts of current and former deacons, elders, pastors, church members, everyone and anyone who has something to say about the ministry (or lack thereof) of the diaconates they have experienced.

Obviously, surveys are only useful if people fill them out. At this point there have been 300 responses – wow!! I think that’s a great start, however, I also think we can do better! If you haven’t yet responded, click on the link above and do it now. Or, if you have responded, send the link on to someone else who may have something to say. The deadline is September 30th, as these results will be discussed in the Diakonia Remixed October meeting. So, come on! Let’s give them something to talk about… something tangible to work with… something valuable to inform their study of diaconal ministry.

As you fill out the survey (because I know you will) please don’t be deterred if you find some of the questions hard to answer, or not within your realm of experience. Just answer what you can – because every little bit helps. And, you can always contact one of the task force members to get further clarification, or just because it’s nice to chat. :)