In 2016, a new ministry starts at Trinity, that actually isn’t “new” at all. It’s the role of ordained Deacons. Deacons are women and men who are called to a special ministry of compassion, witness and service within and beyond the church. Rooted in Scripture,(Acts 6, 1Tim.3, Rom.12:8), "deacon" comes from the Greek meaning “to serve.”
While Trinity hasn't ordained Deacons since the mid-1990's, the focus of this ministry, care and service, is one of the hallmarks of the Trinity community. Our Presbyterian Book of Order states that a Deacon is “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.” The Trinity Session voted last month to re-initiate the role of Deacon and set aside three people who are empowered and blessed by the community to lead in this important work. At Trinity, we imagine Deacons being involved in a ministry of presence and compassion with home and hospital visits, helping to organize resources as needs arise, and caring for the poor and vulnerable in our midst.
The Nominating Team desires to have discerning conversations with potential candidates for this office of service and compassion. If you know of a Trinity member who would be a good fit for this ministry, please contact a Nominating Team member, either Kim Hunter, Mike Smith, Aya Clark, or myself. I’m excited to see how God will use this ancient, and yet new, ministry in the life of our church.
Grace and Peace,
Pastor Matt