Deacons

A Ministry of Sympathy, Witness, and Service

Then the king will say to those at his right hand, "Come, you that are blessed by my Father, inherit the kingdom prepared for you from the foundation of the world; for I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you welcomed me, I was naked and you gave me clothing, I was sick and you took care of me, I was in prison and you visited me." Matthew 25:34-36

What is a Parish?

The communities of Federal Way and Northeast Tacoma from which Marine View draws its membership have been divided into 15 geographical zones called "parishes". Two additional parishes have been designated for those outside these zones and for our regular worship attendees who have not yet made a commitment to church membership. Each parish is assigned a deacon representative, either an individual or a married couple. When possible, those deacons residing in particular geographical areas are assigned to their own parishes.

The Ministry and Gifts of Deacons

There are varieties of gifts, but the same spirit;
and there are varieties of service, but the same Lord;
and there are varieties of working,
but it is the same God who inspires them all in everyone.
(1 Corinthians 12:4-6)

The office of deacons as set forth in Scripture is one of sympathy, witness and service after the example of Jesus Christ. It is the duty of the deacons, first of all, to minister to those who are in need, to the sick, to the friendless, and to any who may be in distress both within and beyond the community of faith.

What can Deacons do for Me?

Provide meals and transportation to parish members in a time of need.
Arrange the support of others in their parish when ministering to the needs of individuals in the parish.
Pray regularly for the members within the parish and the church.
Send out cards to the ill and the bereaved, as well as those who are celebrating.
Host receptions after memorial services in the church.
Prepare communion elements and communion table for worship services.