Diaconate

Mission:

The Diaconate is composed of twenty Deacons who give leadership to the church’s ministry of serving the physical and spiritual needs of members, of those non-members who are part of the congregation and of people beyond the church.

Membership:

Each of the 4 societies of The First Church appoints 5 Deacons according to their individual traditions.

Activities and Operations:

Worship and Matters of Faith

- Serve in symbolic roles of worship including preparation and service of communion, assistance at baptisms and dedications, weddings, funerals, and leading worship.

- Support the traditions of the three constituent denominations along with the religious needs of members of the interdenominational society.

- Serve as a consultant to other church boards and committees on issues related to local and denominational traditions, faith and practice.

- Arrange for lay leadership when appropriate.

- Help make confirmation meaningful and memorable.

Charity

- Maintain an awareness of members and friends in need.

- Provide funds and physical assistance for those in need, either directly through the Deacon’s Fund and/or in liaison with service agencies.

Ministry

- Cooperate closely with the minister(s) in overseeing the pastoral ministry of the Church.

- Work with the Church Council and Worship Board to appoint a committee to call or dismiss ministers.

- Work with the minister(s) in setting or resolving religious policies and practices.

- Assist, when necessary, in the resolution of conflicts that arise within the church.

- Develop and maintain a visitation program for visiting persons who are ill, those who cannot attend church or those in crisis.

Church Membership

- Develop and maintain a membership program composed of inviting, welcoming and integrating new members into the Church.

- Provide training for new members in the meaning and significance of church membership.

- Measure periodically how well the Church is meeting the needs of members.

- Certify church membership.

- Approve and maintain the inactive member list.

- Monitor member standing and discipline.

Denominational and Ecumenical Affairs

- Encourage attendance by delegates and others at wider church and denominational meetings.

- Appoint and support delegates to Worcester County Ecumenical Council and other bodies, as appropriate.

- Receive and disseminate reports from such meetings, and direct issues raised to appropriate groups with the church.