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According to the Book of Order, “The office of deacon as set forth in Scripture is one of sympathy, witness, and service after the example of Jesus Christ. Persons of spiritual character, honest repute, of exemplary lives, brotherly and sisterly love, warm sympathies, and sound judgment should be chosen for this office”
(G-6.0401).  It is a ministry of caring; a ministry of love; a ministry of compassion; and a ministry of prayer, and community service
(G-6.0402). All Christians are charged to love their neighbors and care for one another.  The Deacons provide an organized way of bringing the love of Jesus Christ to the church and the community. 

GPC Board of Deacons

God of grace, who calls us to a common ministry as free servants of Christ, give us courage and discipline to follow where your servants rightly lead us; following them as they follow Christ; that together we may declare your wonderful deeds and show your love to the world.  We pray in Jesus’ name.  Amen.

Prayer for Deacon Ordination

 

Our Background and Mission

With “service” as its ancient root (“diakonoi”) the essence of a Deacon is “to serve the people” through the ministry of compassion. We demonstrate God’s love by following Christ’s example in practical ways of assisting the needy, caring for the suffering, and welcoming new faces to GPC. Deacons visit those who are sick, homebound, or who may be in distress or bereaved within and beyond the faith community.  They seek to listen, be a presence and represent the healing ministry of Christ. Deacons assume other duties as may be delegated to them from time to time by Session, such as leading the people in worship through prayers of intercession, reading the scriptures, presenting the gifts of the people, and assisting with the Lord’s Supper.

Meetings

A Deacon is elected by the congregation and serves a three-year term.  The Board of Deacons meetings take place on the second Tuesday of the month at 7:00 pm. A Deacon representative is present at each monthly Session meeting to stay informed and foster good communication between Elders and Deacons.

Tasks and Ministry

Specific tasks and responsibilities of the Board of Deacons at GPC include:

  • Prepare and assist with serving Communion.
  • Visit those who are in hospitals, convalescent centers or homebound.
  • Deliver flowers and remembrances to the sick, frail and elderly.
  • Coordinate and provide hospitality for memorial service receptions.
  • One of our Deacons brings along her therapeutic harp to play music at the bedside for those unable to participate in congregational life, who need cheering up, for hospice visits and end of life vigils.
  • Send cards and notes when appropriate.
  • Deliver videos of the Sunday service when requested to those unable to attend.
  • Support the Santa Barbara Food Bank, Domestic Violence and homeless Socks for Souls.
  • Coordinate meals once a month at Transition House and Community Kitchen.
  • Coordinate the preparation and delivery of meals to congregants who temporarily find themselves unable to cook for themselves.
  • Coordinate efforts of the Parish Nurse and Blood Bank.

Keep-In-Touch Program

Our Keep-in-Touch Program has been experiencing success by providing periodic phone calls and visits to those less able to get out on their own.

Local Mission Fund

The Deacons promote programs to identify local mission needs and implement funding. Some of the community organizations we support are the following: C.A.S.A. (Court Appointed Special Advocates)
Casa Esperanza Homeless Shelter
Catholic Charities
Community Action Commission
Domestic Violence Solutions
East Lift Transportation
Hospice of Santa Barbara
Isla Vista Youth Projects
Mental Health Association of SB
Rape Crisis Center
Santa Barbara New House
Santa Barbara Womenade
St. Vincent’s PATHS
Storyteller Children’s Center
Villa Majella of Santa Barbara