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.
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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.
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.
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!
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.
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.
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.
The CRCNA has a strong history of deacons working together at a classis or regional level. New models of cooperation continue to emerge. What does this look like at your church?
This article gives a brief history of Volunteers In Service. VIS is an example of diaconal cooperation between churches.
This paper, that comes in pdf form, was referenced in the 2013 Diakonia Remixed Report that led to the seating of deacons at all the CRCNA assemblies in 2015.
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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...
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.
Thanks Erin.
Danielle,
Thanks for this. I just updated the note so that it gives better information about the Canadian context. The notification to churches is only done in the US for the reason you...