The Ministry and Gifts of Deacons

"The office of deacon as set forth in Scripture is one of sympathy, witness, and service after the example of Jesus Christ. Persons of spiritual character, honest repute, exemplary lives, brotherly and sisterly love, warm sympathies, and sound judgment should be chosen for this office."

- Book of Order, G-6.0401

Deaconal Responsibilities

"It is the duty of deacons, first of all, to minister to those who are in need, to the sick, to the friendless, and to any who may be in distress both within and beyond the community of faith.m They shall assume such other duties as may be delegated to them from time to time by the session, such as leading the people in worship through prayers of intercession, reading the Scriptures, presenting the gifts of the people,n and assisting with the Lord's Supper."

- Book of Order, G-6.0402

What It Means to Be a Northminster Deacon...

A Deacon strives to be at all Deacon meetings to give others the benefit of their input, receive training and participate in fellowship work within the congregational care net. A Deacon is an active participant and will serve on at least one committee. A Deacon assists with the work of other committees, such as delivery of food baskets and fruit plates, assistance with communion preparation and clean up, etc. A Deacon fulfills the descriptions and obligations assigned the office of Deacon and as described in our NPC Deacon Organization and Policies document.

Committees of the Board of Deacons

Benevolent Assistance Committee

The purpose of this committee is to serve the crisis needs of individuals such as food, housing, and financial assistance. This is accomplished primarily through the Deacons Food Closet and providing financial assistance either directly or through Northminster's participation in Interfaith Community Services.

Community Ministries Committee

This committee ensures the effective partnership of Northminster’s Deaconal ministries with those in the community who serve with “sympathy, witness and service after the example of Jesus Christ” by developing relationships for partnering in ministry with local agencies.

Outreach Committee

This Committee is responsible for overseeing projects that will encourage the congregation to become involved in the caring and serving of others. Annual outreach programs such as the Angel Tree Project in December and Christmas in July have come to mean so much to so many.

This Committee links through our congregation care net and receives information from the Church Office regarding members. Upon being informed when a member of the congregation experiences loss, illness, death in the immediate family, or other crisis, the Outreach Committee Chair arranges for contact to be made either through appropriate card mailings, personal visitation or via telephone.

Pastoral Partner Committee

This committee assists the Pastoral Staff in extending the ministry of compassion and comfort to those in need within our Church. More information about our Pastoral Partner program is available here.

Transportation Committee

This committee manages and administers the procurement of transportation for those persons in need. The committee shall recruit persons to provide transportation, and generate maps for Deacon deliveries.