Diaconal Ministries Canada
Relying on the Holy Spirit, Diaconal Ministries Canada exists to inspire, empower, and equip deacons as they animate their churches to join in God’s transforming work in communities across Canada.
Diaconal Ministries Canada is a partner agency of the Christian Reformed Church in North America.
https://diaconalministries.com/
Posted in: A Dance of Assumptions
"There are many other [biblical] examples, underlining the importance of naming who you are and how your experiences have shaped you. As Christians, we believe it is important to name whose we are, and how God’s love for us continues to shape our understanding of ourselves."
Thank you for this gentle reminder Miriam!! Humans are really good at making assumptions and we really do need to stop it! We will be sharing this in our diaconal networks; thank you for your words of encouragement AND your practical advice at the end of the article. :)
Posted in: Has Your Church Restructured Your Governance Model?
Thank you so much for sharing this Gary! We completely agree change can be hard and uncertain at times but usually necessary and ultimately for the better of everyone! Blessings as you continue on this journey.
Posted in: Has Your Church Restructured Your Governance Model?
Thank you for sharing this Chad! It was also helpful to hear where you came from; churches can definitely learn from the 'what not to do' or here is what we tried and what didn't work.
Posted in: When Members Face Employment Uncertainty
Thank you for posting this timely article Kristen! We hope it will serve as an encouragement to all deacons to find ways to support those inside and outside of their congregations in helpful and practical ways.
Posted in: Does Your Church Hold a Blue Christmas Service?
Thank you for sharing these resources Joyce! We've already had a church inquire about these services and ask for more information so we'll be sure to send this on to them.
Posted in: What Do You Call Your Benevolence Ministry?
We would tend to agree with Lloyd and also with Andy R. It may surprise many that the word Benevolent is still used today by many people and organizations; the church certainly doesn't own a monopoly on the word and it's not as outdated as one may think.
Many churches have begun calling this 'fund' the Deacon Fund, as Andy and others point out. This is a fairly easy and concise name, but again would require clear and consistent explanations as well.
What we believe is at the heart of your question is about communication. Something, unfortunately, churches have not always done so well. In any church, family, business, or group, long-time "members" can easily assume the new or younger ones know and understand what is being talked about when referring to certain traditions, policies and/or procedures. Most have experienced this at least once or twice in their life and it can be very frustrating and confusing. While it may seem redundant for those who have been around a long time or those serving in some sort of leadership capacity, weekly teachings and reminders on WHY A CHURCH DOES WHAT IT DOES AND HOW THEY DO IT has several benefits for the entire membership. Speaking as though there is always that "one person" in the room who has no idea who you are or what you do and why you do it can go a long way in engaging and equipping your church community and 'leaving no person behind'!!
Posted in: Halfway Through 2018: Books You've Read or Hope to Read?
Hello there! Haven't read the book "Discernment: Reading the Signs of Daily Life" by Michael Christensen and Rebecca Laird (based on Henri Nouwen's writings) but seeking a review from anyone who has? Have you read this? How did it impact you? What did you learn? What did you disagree with? Who do you think should (or must) read this?
Posted in: Has Your Church Undergone a Name Change?
We've seen churches up here in Canada go through name changes and one interesting theme has emerged: many have changed their name to reflect the neighbourhood or community they find themselves in. This is a wonderful way to honour your local community and (among other ways) become embedded in your local context. Here are some that come to mind:
1. Water Street Church, Guelph, ON - formerly First CRC
2. Jennings Creek CRC, Lindsay, ON - formerly Lindsay CRC
3. Talbot Street CRC, London, ON - formerly First CRC
A thorough examination of WHY you are considering a name change is always a good place to start. Blessings on this endeavour!
Posted in: What Books Are You Reading This Summer?
I'm hoping to start "The Four Pivots: Reimagining Justice, Reimagining Ourselves", by Shawn Ginwright. - Erin Knight (He was just featured on Brene Brown's podcast!)