Tammy Heidbuurt
I live in Hamilton, Ontario, affectionately known as 'the Hammer'. I am a part of the New Hope community in the east end of Hamilton where I am continually learning about God's call for justice, and of his grace. I have the privilege of working with Diaconal Ministries Canada (DMC), which has allowed me to meet beautiful and compassionate people coast to coast, and to see how God is at work through the them - the church.
Posted in: Deacons: An Elder Training Ground
Thanks Melissa. I would have to say that my earlier experience as a deacon, and working with deacons, was as you described. However, I am seeing that this isn't always the case. I heard a pastor say at a Classis meeting that, "Deacons are at the cutting edge of where the church is going" (in the context that the health and direction of the church depends heavily on the health and direction of the diaconate). I would have to agree. The role and opportunity for deacons is a great one!
Posted in: The Power Of Being Present
Jean Vanier, founder of L'arche, focuses on building community with others by being present with them. Your post made me think of what a ministry of presence could look like for deacons and our churches. It is challenging to slow down our pace - getting beyond meeting agendas and 'to do' lists, to just being present with others. I wonder what stories of being present are out there?