The purpose of the Deacons is 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 our community of faith.
“A layperson elected by a church with congregational polity to serve in worship, in pastoral care, and on administrative committees.”
A Deacon is – according to the Book of Order:
“The office of deacon, as set forth in Scripture, is one of sympathy, witness, and service after the example of Jesus Christ. Persons of spiritual character, honest repute, of exemplary lives, brotherly and sisterly love, warm sympathies and sound judgment should be chosen for this office.
“It is the duty of 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.”
Here at First Presbyterian Church of Brighton, the office of deacon was instituted in 1948, when 9 men were installed as the first deacons. It was not until 1967 that women were allowed to serve as deacons. Lois Gates and Bessie Hood were the first women to be elected to this office. Since then the Board of Deacons has been blessed with men and women who have cared and ministered to the congregation of this church.
In addition to ministering to the needs of their parishes, deacons donate $1,000 per year to the Ministerial Benevolent Fund administered by Almost Home to the homeless and suffering people in Brighton. Currently, the deacons are in the process of organizing a Stephen Ministry which should be available to members who have experienced difficult times due to a death in the family, loss of a job, or other life interrupting situations, by mid 2010. Several events are being planned for 2009/2010 that will bring the congregation together through fellowship and bind us together as a family of faith.
