Deacons are charged to minister to the needy, the sick, and the friendless, along with providing leadership in worship. Other congregational leaders who facilitate organizations, ministries, and committees are called to further the mission and the ministry of the Church.
To lead effectively in whatever capacity they serve the church and to respond to the changing needs in their congregations, communities, and the world, church leaders must not only be well versed in church governance; they also must be spiritually equipped.
Becoming spiritually equipped involves devoting oneself to a lifelong learning process.
Members of the Order of Elders, Diakonia or The Christian Discipleship Network can engage in a learning process with others who share their calling.
1) Diakonia PC(USA), a new network for deacons
Who may become a member of Diakonia? Membership is open to individuals or to groups of persons who are ordained and serving as deacons in any PC(USA) congregation.
Objectives
• To reclaim and to further a sense of diakonia in local congregations and throughout the denomination
• To provide additional training to individuals and to groups of deacons.
• To provide the opportunity to reflect on and study the ministry of the diaconate from a Biblical, societal, and theological perspective.
•To strengthen fellowship among members and to render mutual support.
2) Christian discipleship network, a new network for all congregational leaders
Objectives
• To provide persons who are called to lead in their congregation an opportunity to participate in regional training events, fellowship gatherings, and mission experiences. Servant leadership specialists will facilitate events on a quarterly basis.
Our Partners Are:
• Presbyteries • Pastors
• Synods • Mission Co-Workers
• Seminaries • Congregational Leaders
• The Office of the General Assembly
3) The Order of Elders, a covenant group for persons ordained as elders
A network to help elders respond to their calling to both leadership and discipleship. The network provides support and resources for study, prayer, and daily reflection.
• Membership is available to everyone who has been ordained to the office of elder.
For more information contact Stephany Jackson at stephany.jackson@pcusa.org or at 502-569-8488.
Stephany Jackson is associate for congregational leadership in the Theology and Worship office of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) in Louisville, Ky.
