Posted in Bible, Every-Member Ministry, Life in the Church, Mission, Service, Unity, Vision
Dave Burnett serves us as our Deacon of Benevolence. In this post he invites us into that role and explains how he does it. As elders we have so appreciated his service, and we have seen time again that his wisdom and compassion bring great blessing to others. Enjoy!
Daniel
A Look at a Deacon of Benevolence
I have been asked to share about the Benevolence Ministry in our church of which I have the privilege to serve as deacon. The Benevolence Ministry’s focus is to help meet the physical needs of members of our church. Sometimes the need is financial and sometimes the need is a helping hand (often many hands), sometimes it is both.
In a typical situation I am alerted about the need by another member, a pastor, or a home group leader. In any case, I usually talk to the home group leader to get their perspective on how we can best help. If the need is for physical help, I begin to look through our member list to seek those who may be best suited to help. If it is financial, I talk to those involved about the best course of action, often using money from the Benevolence fund. I also try to determine if future financial pitfalls can be avoided and how that may be accomplished. A pastor is always copied by email when funds are distributed.
I believe what I enjoy most about this ministry is having a part in helping people in our membership who have a need. It is a blessing to be aware of these needs and then be able to have a part in meeting them. It is also a great blessing when I see individuals sacrificing their time, energy and finances to help others. Many have stepped up to help others when they were asked. Many have also given anonymously to needs they are aware of through the church. This ministry would not exist without so many willing and wanting to help.
This ministry is very similar to the role of the first deacons in Acts chapter 6. There was a real need in the church but it would hinder the elders from focusing on “prayer and the ministry of the word.” Our desire is to be a help to our pastors in taking the responsibility of organizing physical and financial help for members.
I also see this ministry as fulfilling the biblical role of the body caring for each member. There are many places in scripture calling us to this task. Perhaps the most succinct is Galatians 6:2, “Bear one another’s burdens, and so fulfill the law of Christ.”
I believe my role is to come alongside the home group leaders to serve those whose need is beyond what a home group is able to fully meet. The home group leader is my means of being aware of these needs. I and the church body as a whole desire to help with these needs. I am thankful and blessed to be able to serve our church in this way. Thank you for the opportunity.
Dave Burnett
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