|  Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Diaconal ministry has many dimensions and evokes many different kinds of questions. The first purpose of Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) is to give new deacons an initial introduction and brief overview of the role of the deacon. The second is to provide a reminder of the vast ministry opportunities that are available to deacons.

The Ministry of the Deacon

• What is a deacon?
• How can a deacon make a difference?
• When is a diaconate at its best?
• What provides a smooth transition of new deacons into the diaconate?
• What is the ideal number of deacons for a church?

The Diaconal Network

• What is a diaconal conference?
• What is Diaconal Ministries Canada?
• What is a Diaconal Ministry Developer?

The Deacon and Diaconal Visits

• Who may deacons be at times required to visit?
• What is the nature of a meaningful diaconal encounter/visit?
• How may prayer be an important part of a visit?
• What are some Scripture passages that may be helpful during a visit?

The Deacon and Community Ministry

• How does a church identify opportunities for ministry in the community?
• What are some of the steps involved with a COS?
• What are some ways in which deacons may lead the church to respond to needs in its community?
• What is Operation Manna?
• Is Operation Manna available throughout Canada?
• How is the Operation Manna program funded?
• How does a church/ministry apply for Operation Manna funding?
• How is a diaconate able to respond to the requests for assistance from its community?

The Deacon and the Congregation

• When is a congregation thriving in diaconal ministry?
• What are some guidelines for involving congregational members as partners in ministry?

The Deacon and Stewardship

• What is the role of the deacon in the area of stewardship?
• How does a diaconate prepare an offering schedule?

The Deacon and Justice

• How do deacons raise awareness and inspire action the area of justice?

The Deacon and Refugee Ministry

• Who is a refugee?
• What is refugee sponsorship?
• Why should churches sponsor refugees?
• Is assistance available for the sponsorship of a refugee family?

The Deacon and CRWRC

• What is the Christian Reformed World Relief Committee (CRWRC)?
• What is the relationship between the deacon and CRWRC?
• What is the relationship between Diaconal Ministries Canada (DMC) and CRWRC?