You've heard them leading the Prayers of the People and seen them preparing the Table before Holy Communion and bringing the Gospel to the people. You understand they are not priests, yet they are clergy, the diaconate being recognized as one of three orders of ministry in the Anglican church. Outside of serving on Sunday mornings, you might ask yourself, "What does a deacon do?"
The work of the deacon during the week is a reflection of the work the deacon does on Sunday: the deacon brings the needs and cares of the world to the remembrance of the church and takes the truth of the Gospel to a world in need. A deacon's role is all about service.
All service must begin with prayer, and our deacons are devoted to prayer. Like all of us, they need to be students of God's word and spend time preparing spiritually for the work of the kingdom. A deacon may offer counsel, guidance, and encouragement to members of the church, perhaps even visiting parishioners who are unable to attend services. A deacon is a good listener.
A deacon's work may take unusual or unexpected forms as well! Dn. Robert's love of art allows him to bring together artists whose work is an expression of worship. We, in this parish, are blessed to be able to share in the enjoyment of curated displays and to allow these works to speak to our souls, encouraging us to draw near to God. Dn. Derek is newly ordained. He still works in a secular environment and shines the light of Christ there every day. His work in the parish is still taking shape, but we know God has called Dn. Derek and we are excited to see the forms his calling revealed, even as he continues his path toward the priesthood.
The work of the deacon during the week is a reflection of the work the deacon does on Sunday: the deacon brings the needs and cares of the world to the remembrance of the church and takes the truth of the Gospel to a world in need. A deacon's role is all about service.
All service must begin with prayer, and our deacons are devoted to prayer. Like all of us, they need to be students of God's word and spend time preparing spiritually for the work of the kingdom. A deacon may offer counsel, guidance, and encouragement to members of the church, perhaps even visiting parishioners who are unable to attend services. A deacon is a good listener.
A deacon's work may take unusual or unexpected forms as well! Dn. Robert's love of art allows him to bring together artists whose work is an expression of worship. We, in this parish, are blessed to be able to share in the enjoyment of curated displays and to allow these works to speak to our souls, encouraging us to draw near to God. Dn. Derek is newly ordained. He still works in a secular environment and shines the light of Christ there every day. His work in the parish is still taking shape, but we know God has called Dn. Derek and we are excited to see the forms his calling revealed, even as he continues his path toward the priesthood.
