Resurrection Metropolitan Community Church Consideration for Deacon

Thank you for applying to potentially serve as Deacon at Resurrection MCC. A Deacon is an individual scripturally qualified, chosen by the Deacons and approved by the Pastor (or Interim Administrative Leader), who is both willing and able to serve the Lord within a local body of believers.

DEACON APPLICATION PROCESS

1. Application to the church.
2. Deacon/Pastoral review of the nominees.
3. The Applicant’s response (spiritual gifts questionnaire).
4. Personal interview with the Interview Committee.
5. Interview Committee will notify applicants.
6. Installation/Anointing of new Deacons.

Deacons are an important part of Resurrection MCC, can serve as assistants to the pastors and provide support and care to the congregation. Based on Spiritual Gifts, they serve as prayer partners, hospital/home visitation, communion, and various ministries within the church.

Deacons are not governing decision-makers or members of a board; they are servants used to maintain unity and meet the needs of the church.

UFMCC BYLAWS

Effective 19 July 2022

DEACONS: As outlined in the New Testament, their office is a historic ministry of service and aid within the Christian Church.

The Biblical Qualities of a Deacon (1 Timothy 3:8-12)

• Of good reputation
• Full of the Spirit
• Full of wisdom
• Dignified
• Respect confidentiality
• Maintain sobriety
• Humility
• Hold on to the faith that has been revealed with a clear conscience

THE BIBLICAL GUIDELINES AND RESPONSIBILITIES FOR DEACON MINISTRY

The word Deacon is a translation of the New Testament Greek term diakonos, which means servant or messenger, and is used three times in the New Testament in reference to the church office (Rom. 16:1; Phil. 1:1; 1 Tim. 3:8,11-12). While the word Deacon is not used in Acts 6:1-4, this passage is widely viewed as the early church prototype for a Deacon and serves as a helpful pattern. The Deacons serve in partnership with pastors as one of the two biblical offices in the church. Their primary focus is on the service-oriented and administrative tasks primarily related to the physical needs of the church (Acts 6:1-4).

THE BIBLICAL RESPONSIBILITIES OF DEACONS

Based on the scriptural qualifications, Deacons serve in areas like finances (1 Tim. 3:8), visitation (1 Tim. 3:11), administration (1 Tim. 3:12), and ministering to the needs of the church family (Acts 6:1-4).

Membership/Friends of the Church: To become a Deacon, you can be a member or friend of the church in good standing by consistently sharing your time, talent and treasures with Resurrection MCC. This is essential as the role of a Deacon is to serve and support the church and its members.

Biblical Knowledge: A Deacon should have a strong understanding of the Bible and be able to apply it to daily life. This includes being familiar with the major themes and teachings of the Bible, as well as having a knowledge of the history of Christianity.

Personal Character: Deacons are held to a high standard of moral character and conduct. They should be individuals who exhibit honesty, integrity, and humility, and who are known for their good deeds and service to others.  They should possess psychological integrity and responsibility, have the capacity to listen carefully and to share one’s faith while being able to be open to other faith journeys, ethnicity, cultures, genders and races.  They must be able to self-direct, collaborate, be accountable, able to lead, motivate and facilitate others into action and service.

Leadership Qualities: A Deacon should possess strong leadership skills and be able to work collaboratively with others. They should also be able to handle conflicts and disagreements with grace and wisdom.

Completion of Deacon Training: This training can include courses on the Bible, MCC church history, leadership, and other topics relevant to the role of a Deacon.

Spiritual Maturity:  The first and most important requirement for becoming a Deacon is evidence of spiritual maturity and character.  It is characterized by honesty, integrity, humility, and a willingness to serve others.

Deacons are called to be spiritual leaders and role models in their church and community. They should be able to demonstrate a high level of integrity and character in their personal and professional lives. This includes being truthful, trustworthy, and dependable.

If you feel called to serve as a Deacon, it is important to take time to evaluate your spiritual maturity and character, and to seek guidance and mentorship from church leaders and trusted advisors.

BENEFITS OF SERVING AS A DEACON

Being a Deacon at Resurrection MCC is a meaningful and rewarding experience that can provide several benefits to both the individual and the community they serve. Below are just a few of the benefits of serving as a deacon:

• Opportunity to Serve:As a Deacon, you can serve others in our church and community. This can be a deeply rewarding experience and can help you grow in your faith.
• Leadership Experience: Deacons can provide valuable leadership experience that can benefit you both inside and outside of the church. You will learn how to work with others, make important decisions, and manage resources effectively.
• Personal Growth:A Deacon can also help you to grow personally and spiritually. You will be challenged to live out your faith in new and meaningful ways, and you will have the opportunity to develop new skills and abilities.
• Deepening Relationships:Deacons can develop deep and meaningful relationships with others in our church and community. This can be a source of support and encouragement as you navigate life’s challenges.

These are just a few of the many benefits of serving as a Deacon. If you are considering becoming a Deacon, take the time to talk to current Deacons in our church and learn more about the rewards and challenges of this important role.

DEACONS BYLAWS

General Statement
The Deacons of the Resurrection Metropolitan Community Church are those 13 individuals whom the Pastor, Vice Moderator, or current Deacons select to serve as volunteer lay leaders alongside the Pastoral Leadership and help implement the church’s ministry function as caring servants toward the congregation. Deacons will also help support La Casa de Todos as requested.

Responsibilities of a Deacon
According to the historical practice mentioned in the New Testament, Deacons are to be faithful church servants. They assist the Pastoral Leadership in meeting the physical and spiritual needs of the congregation. They also serve the Elder Council as a trusted source of wisdom and advice.

Qualifications of a Deacon
A Deacon of the church must be an individual of good character, spiritual maturity, and a humble servant of God. Church staff, a member in good standing, or a long-time friend of the church will be eligible to serve as a member of the deacon body.

Appointment of a Deacon
Recommendation for Deacons can be submitted by church members at the appointed time. Anyone who is requested to serve must complete an application. All applications will be reviewed by the current Deacon and senior church leadership. Additionally, recommendations will be taken into consideration by the 13 existing deacon body in a way that they see fit.

Term of Service for a Deacon
The office of Deacon has a 2-year serving term and lifetime responsibility within Resurrection Metropolitan Community Church.  Deacons are appointed by the Senior Pastor or Vice Moderator, as stated in these bylaws, and terminated only by death, voluntary submission or removal from office. The deacon body, Senior Pastor have the authority to determine the number less than 13 for those to serve as Deacons and the terms of their active service to meet the church’s requirements.

Meetings and Leadership Assignment of a Deacon
The Deacons shall arrange for meetings and elect a Chair and Co-chair and other officers and committees as are necessary for the discharge of their duties. The Senior Pastor, Vice Moderator, church Board or the Chair of the Deacons may call the Deacons into special session whenever the need arises.