Being a Deacon is a wonderful call to service. Deacons are the "servants" or "caregivers" of the congregation. In this large congregation, people have all kinds of needs - they are recovering from surgery, grieving, lonely, ill, or otherwise in a time where they welcome the ministry of care from our congregation. In a very real way, Deacons are the hands and heart of the Church in our ministry of caring. Serving as a Deacon of the First Presbyterian Church of Ann Arbor is a privilege and a blessing. It is also an opportunity for spiritual growth and fellowship. As a deacon, you are given the opportunity to know other church members in a deeper way, serving alongside them and growing in your understanding of the burdens people carry and how the church can help.
The ministry of deacon as set forth in Scripture is one of compassion, witness, and service, sharing in the redeeming love of Jesus Christ for the poor, the hungry, the sick, the lost, the friendless, the oppressed, those burdened by unjust policies or structures, or anyone in distress. Persons of spiritual character, honest repute, exemplary lives, brotherly and sisterly love, sincere compassion, and sound judgment should be chosen for this ministry. (The PC(USA) Book of Order)
Becoming a Deacon at First Presbyterian Church:
Training:
- Deacons and Elders will meet in the Fall prior to the beginning of their term of service for training sessions. These training sessions are led by pastors.
- Deacons will also attend the Officers’ Retreat in the Fall prior to the beginning of their term of service.
- Deacons are nominated, ordained and installed by the church members, then trained by staff and current Deacons. Deacons then work under the guidance and supervision of Associate Pastor, Melissa Anne Rogers, with the supportive fellowship of the other active Deacons.
The Deacons serve for three years and Deacon meetings are held monthly (except July and August).
Deacons at First Pres must be active members of the congregation who have demonstrated their support and contributions to the church and its work for at least one year.
Each Deacon is assigned the responsibility to serve and communicate with a group of members known as a Chapel of approximately thirty individuals and/or families who live in a particular neighborhood or region of Ann Arbor and outlining areas. New church members may be added to a Deacon's Chapel for special welcoming care.