May 24, 2019
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Deacons In Leadership
Since 2015 deacons in the CRC have been asked to live into a new level of leadership. 3. reviews a host of articles and resources helping guide diaconates into their leadership role.
Community Builder
Andrew Ryskamp
Website:
About Me:
I served World Renew in various capacities from agronomsit in Bangladesh to Executive Director-US. Currently I am providing consultation to the CRCNA, helping implement the decision of Synod 2015 that strengthened the role of deacons in the CRC and also has them now seated at Classes and Synod. I am also involved in the work of racial reconciliation at Madison Square Church in Grand Rapids. My passion is to see the church carry out more effectively Christ's call to be agents of transformation in a hurting world.
Interests:
Family,
Biblical reflection,
Community development,
Travel
April 24, 2019
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The Leadership Role of Deacons - An Interview With Dr. Steve Timmermans
In this short interview, Dr. Steve Timmermans, Executive Director of the CRCNA, reflects on the refocused expectations of deacons laid out by Synod 2015.
April 2, 2019
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The Deacon's Role In Seeking Biblical Justice
In this newsletter, the role of deacons in exercising their justice mandate is explored. Find helpful links and resources on an area of ministry that is urgent for today's world, but can be daunting to initiate.
March 25, 2019
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How Have You Responded to the Mandate to 'Be Prophetic Critics Of Injustice'
One of the mandates for deacons is "Be prophetic critics of the waste, injustice, and selfishness in our society, and be sensitive counselors to the victims of such evils." How has your church or diaconate lived into this mandate?
March 21, 2019
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Managing The Leadership Role of Deacons
This article reviews the functions that flow out of the 'oath of office' deacons take when they are installed in their role. Find suggestions and numerous links as to how deacons can faithfully fulfill this leadership function.
March 20, 2019
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Introducing Justice Initiatives: The Role of Deacons
This article helps a diaconate think through how to respond to their call to "be prophetic critics of the waste, injustice, and selfishness in our society" and provides helpful links to a host of resources.
March 5, 2019
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The Deacon’s Role in Seeking Biblical Justice
This article serves as a quick resource for deacons thinking through their response to their justice mandate. Find links to key resources for orientation, as well as helpful worship resources!
February 26, 2019
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For Deacons Feb 2019 - Cooperation at the Regional/Classical Level
This issue of For Deacons looks at the benefits of doing ministry together at a regional or classical level, principles to use, and an example of how Volunteers in Service is making this work in Grand Rapids, MI.
February 26, 2019
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For Deacons December 2018 - Orientation Resources
This issue of For Deacons reflects on the role deacons play and suggests resources for orientation to the office as well as providing a well recognized approach to engaging the neighboring community.
January 24, 2019
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Ministry Through Volunteers In Service (VIS)
Through a partnership with Volunteers In Service, churches are given the opportunity to connect with neighbors who have been referred for assistance. This article shares several powerful stories of impact.
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What a neat way to help a church re-focus. Another word that is used is "with". How can we do ministry "with" our community or context where God has placed us? A resource guide for approaching...
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The video would be a great way for a Council or a Diaconate to have a discussion on the place of justice in their church's programming. It would also serve well as a topic for an Adult education...
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It is a good story to encourage goal setting. Do you have examples churches that have set goals and created accountability around those goals? I would love to see some samples of both goals and...
posted on: GOOOOOOOAAAL! -
Bryan,
There are two things to consider from my perspective. The first is making sure there is a credible audit trail that ensures that in fact funds are being appropriately approved and...
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Dave,
This is a neat story. It is what is needed to make our churches relevant to their context. Here is a related post that underscores some principles of good community engagement by...
posted on: Get Out! -
It may be helpful to clarify the purpose of the Benevolence Fund. Some churches restrict benevolence monies for membership only and then contract with a community organization for emergency needs...
posted on: What Do You Call Your Benevolence Ministry? -
There are other churches that are dealing with similar issues. I spoke at a meeting of Classis Pacific Northwest https://www.crcna.org/churches/classis/classis-pacific-northwest , and there were...
posted on: Homeless on the Church Campus -
What a great reflection. In an era where we are encouraging continuity in office (i.e. recurring terms) it is important to build in sabbath and sabbatical options.
posted on: A Deacon's Work is Never Done! -
Thanks Erin.
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