Parish Deacons

 

The Ministry of the Deacons

1 Timothy 3:8-13, NIV

8) Deacons, likewise, are to be men worthy of respect, sincere, not indulging in much wine, and not pursuing dishonest gain. 9) They must keep hold of the deep truths of the faith with a clear conscience. 10) They must first be the same way, their wives {11) Or way, deaconesses} are to be women worthy of respect, not malicious talkers but temperate and trustworthy in everything. 12) A deacon must be the husband of but one wife and must manage his children and his household well. 13) Those who have served well gain an excellent standing and great assurance in their faith in Christ Jesus.

 

The Board of Deacons at Westkirk Presbyterian Church shall “oversee the ministry of compassion of the congregation to the sick, friendless, bereaved, and those in any way distressed.” Along with the Pastor, and with the tangible support of the Session, the Deacons shall accomplish this purpose through providing personal and ongoing care to the members of Westkirk Presbyterian Church assigned to each Deacon as her/his ‘parish.’

 

Deacon Caring Ministries:

• New Light – Ministry for those experiencing Depression (themselves or others).

• Café Kirk – Host parish dinners throughout the year on Saturday nights where several parish groups are invited to share a meal and fellowship together. This is a great opportunity for people within the congregation to get to know each other.

• College Student Care Packages – Send care packages to our college students each fall to let them know their church family remembers and misses them.

• DMARC Food Pantry Collection – Collect, on a quarterly basis, non-perishable food items and money from the congregation and distribute to the local DMARC food pantry for distribution to the needy.

• Urbandale Food Pantry - monthly collection of personal hygiene items.

• Library – Maintain the church’s library of donated books.

• Military Support – Provide care packages to those close to us serving in a military capacity away from home.

• New Baby Ministry – Provide a gift and coordination of meals for the new family after the birth of a child.

• New Light Support Group – Support for those suffering from depression or other mental health issues.

• Prayer Shawl Ministry – Make and provide a prayer shawl to those in need of comfort.

• Meal Ministry - Provide meals for those in need due to illness or surgery. .