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OPC Board of Deacons
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A discussion of the general duties of the Deacons follows below. Click here to learn more about Deacons' activities and caregiving teams. The Deacons (a general description) "A ministry of service" is the best way to describe the office of deacon. Like elders, deacons are ordained for life-long service but serve on the "Board of Deacons" for only a 2-year term. The Book of Order says "The office of deacon as set forth in Scripture is one of sympathy, witness, and service alter the example of Jesus Christ. Persons of spiritual character, honest repute, of exemplary lives, brotherly and sisterly love, warm sympathies, and sound judgment should be chosen for this office." G-6.0401 "It is the duty of deacons, first of all, to minister to those who arc in need, to the sick, to the friendless, and to any who may be in distress both within and beyond the community of faith. They shall assume such other duties as may be delegated to them from time to time by the session... G-6.0402 The deacons, as part of the board of deacons are lead by a "moderator" who is selected by the board. It is the moderator's responsibility to call and administer meetings, to report the board’s activities to the session and to help the board define their activities and ministries. Unlike elders, deacons serve, but do not have the responsibility to lead. As stated in Presbyterian Polity by Joan Gray and Joyce Tucker; "It is the responsibility of the session to oversee and lead in all aspects of the church's life. Not so with deacons. They have the advantage of a limited responsibility, with the freedom to concentrate on one task - relieving human need. One of the most important tasks that the deacons have accepted is to prepare the elements, bread and juice, for Communion services. They arrive early on these Sundays and carefully cut the bread into small pieces and fill those small cups with juice. During the service, it is most likely a deacon you see carrying the sacramental meal for us to share to the front table. There is no more symbolic way to show their commitment to serve others than to be at our service for this meal. Service is their main objective, but that is not to say that they do all the work alone. Like elders, they are free to elicit help of any other members of the congregation or community to help them reach their goals. Many times service projects take the form of events that require a large number of people to make the event a success. If you would like to join them simply talk to any deacon. They can tell you about future projects or events and help you find an activity that will suit you interests and abilities. When the deacons ask for your help, prayerfully consider offering your time and talents in the service of those in need. And if you are asked to be ordained as a deacon and to serve on the board, ask the Holy Spirit to guide you in your decision. The office of deacon is truly one of both joy and gratitude in knowing that you will make a difference in the lives of people needing your help, love and compassion. Click here to learn more about Deacons' activities and caregiving teams.
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