Skip to main content

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!

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?

We want to hear from you.

Connect to The Network and add your own question, blog, resource, or job.

Add Your Post