The deaconate was founded originally during the days of the early Christian Church (Acts 6: 1-7). They early deacons were selected to assist the apostles with daily chores such as the daily distribution of food to the widows. This allowed the apostles to focus their efforts on prayer and serving the Word.
Ministry
The deacons at MCC-DC are an extension of the pastorate. In this capacity they function in three main areas of service: Liturgical, Pastoral, and Financial. Each deacon is free to determine in which area he/she is best suited to serve, however, it is expected that all deacons will serve in the Pastoral area.
Liturgical: In the Liturgical ministry they assist during the worship service by preparing the communion table during worship, celebrating communion, leading the congregation in prayer and any other task they may be called on to perform. A deacon should be capable of continuing the worship service should the pastor become somehow incapacitated during the service and not be able to continue.
Pastoral: Serving in the Pastoral ministry, deacons visit the sick at home or in the hospital, serving communion to them and any family members that may be present, praying for and with them, and ministering to their needs as best they can. The deacons also offer support and limited counseling to members who may be experiencing a spiritual crisis.
Financial: Deacons serving in the Financial ministry administer the distribution of funds from either the McCann Fund or the Parks Fund from funds are available to provide financial assistance to those in need of assistance for food, housing or utilities.
Qualifications
The qualifications for deacons in the early church are set forth in I Timothy 3: 8-12. In the preceding verses (17) are the qualifications for a bishop or pastor. At MCC-DC, we believe there are no separate standards for pastors, deacons or members of the congregation. “There is one body and one Spirit, just as you were called to the one hope of your calling, one Lord, one faith, one baptism, one God and Father of all, who is above all and through all and in all.” (Eph 4:5 NRSV). There is but one standard set forth for all God’s people. However, to be a deacon one must first of all be a member of MCC-DC and secondly must be a mature Christian – one who can “hold fast to the mystery of the faith with a clear conscience” (1 Tim 3:9 NRSV). Other qualifications are found in verse 8. “Deacons likewise must be serious, not double-tongued, not indulging in much wine, not greedy for money” (I Tim 3: 8 NRSV)”
Contact Information
For more information on MCC-DC’s Deaconate, please contact Rev. Johnson at RevDwayne@mccdc.com.