Jack Kooyman

Diaconal ministry is done exclusively by deacons on behalf of the church.

Thanks for this post Norm. No matter how we address the issue of terms and need for training for deacons, I think there is a growing consensus that the CRC in general and congregations in particular need to look at how we develop and sustain a more vital and effective diaconate.

Jack Kooyman, Deacon Guide for The Network

Thanks for your service Melissa. You have done an outstanding job during your time as Deacon Guide! You and your predecessor, Karl Westerhof, have both provided a wealth of timely and useful information, thoughtful and engaging posts, encouragement, guidance, and inspiration for those engaged in and committed to diaconal ministry. I look forward to--and, truth be told, am somewhat nervous about--following the example and maintaining the standard which you and Karl have set. I will almost certainly be looking to you for advice and ideas . . . so I hope you stay close and stay connected. Godspeed!

I think Bob Lupton's book, Toxic Charity, along with When Helping Hurts, from the Chalmer's Center, make very strong cases and compelling arguments for the need to change how we as Christians--at least in the U.S.--have engaged and continue to engage in the work of serving or helping others. Both also show that this change is needed not only because what and how we have engaged in helping or serving has not helped; it's also needed because all too often we have caused more harm than good to those we thought we were helping. What I appreciate about both of these books is that they also provide ideas and suggestions for changing how we help that benefits, improve and transform lives, relationships, and communities in ways that I think advance and more closely reflect God's reign. 

Thank you for articulating so very clearly how we need to work on being more aware of how we act and what we say. I have often heard from others and said something myself similar to, "It was not my/our intention to exclude fill in the blank." Statements such as this should tell us that if we indeed do not want anyone to be or feel excluded, then we need to be "intentional" to do our best to include ALL God's children in everything we say, do, and experience as the body of Christ.

Grace & Peace,

Jack

Thanks so much for sharing this Affina. Like so many difficulties and challenges, it is easy for those of us who are hearing impaired to feel different, frustrated, resentful, and alone with our particular challenge. Educating and informing others about our challenge so that they can better understand and help is very important. However, even with those closest to us, this seems like something that has to occur on a frequent basis. I have to remember that I live in a world, community, and family where most people are not significantly hearing impaired. It also helps me when I am able to laugh at myself . . . like when I misunderstand something and make a comment that has no relationship to what was said.

I do hope that the Christian community in particular would have a better understanding of the little things that they can do to communicate more effectively with the hard of hearing and hearing impaired individuals around them. 

Again, thanks for sharing your thoughts and experience.

Grace & Peace,

Jack

Thanks so much for your thoughtful and, obviously, thought provoking post. I love the video too and plan to share it as well. Do Justice!

Thank you so much for helping to raise awareness about this humanitarian crisis at our southern border. No matter our politics, we must see each person as an image bearer of God. Additionally, as you no doubt experienced, so many of those seeking asylum are also fellow believers who love Jesus and trust God for their daily bread.