The Ministry of the Deacon

In 1996 the ministry in the United Methodist Church was reordered with the creation of the Order of Deacon. Although the historical and theological understanding of this order within the church provides interesting discussion, the following is what most people want to know.

According to the United Methodist Book of Discipline, deacons are persons called by God, authorized by the church, and ordained by a bishop to a lifetime ministry of Word and Service to both the community and the congregation in a ministry that connects the two.

Deacons give leadership in the church's life:

• in the teaching and proclamation of the Word
• in worship and in assisting the elders in the administration of the sacraments of baptism and the Lord's Supper
• in forming and nurturing disciples
• in conducting marriages and burying the dead
• in the congregation's mission to the world and
• in leading the congregation in interpreting the needs, concerns, and hopes of the world.

The appointment of deacons in full connection shall be made by the bishop in consultation with the deacon and the pastor in charge.

Daniel Benedict of the General Board of Discipleship of the UMC, says that the two orders of ministry - elder and deacon - are distinct, complementary, and equal. According to him, "Elders preeminently embody and exemplify the office of Christ as priest, while deacons preeminently embody and exemplify the office of Christ as servant."

I feel that the role of deacon allows me to fulfill my call to ministry and give thanks that this church affirms me in this.