Moorpark Presbyterian Church Board of Deacons

Board of Deacons Ministry

As Jesus was among his disciples as one who served (Luke 22:27), so Deacons are among the congregation as ones who serve. Deacons serve as the heart and hands of Jesus in the community of faith.

The Deacon Ministry is one of caring spiritually, physically and emotionally for the congregational family. Our Presbyterian Book of Order says the first duty of a Deacon is “minister to those in need, to the sick, to the friendless, and to any who may be in distress both within and beyond the community of faith (G-60402).” This is a ministry that gives our most valuable resource in today’s context: TIME.

Deacons give their time so that members of the community of faith experience the reality of the Kingdom of God in human terms. While the Deacon cannot, nor is it their task to solve every problem or meet every need – it IS the Deacon’s ministry to see that in each house of their flock they have in some way brought the Kingdom of God near to that house (Luke 10:9)

Flock Calls -

Member families are assigned a Deacon. Each Deacon’s assigned families comprise a flock. Due to the growth of Moorpark Presbyterian Church, the Deacon flocks are expanding. We now have 33 Deacons serving on the Board as first line ministers. A primary goal for each Deacon is to contact members of their flock a minimum of three times during the year. These calls serve as contacts with this congregation, enabling awareness of prayer needs, concerns, joys and blessings. Other needs have been revealed making is possible for that Deacon, the Board and others to provide any necessary help.

Deacon Fund -

The congregation continues to graciously provide money for the Deacon Fund through the offering received the first Sunday of each month in the worship services. Through the determination of the Board the Fund helps provide families in our community of faith through difficult financial needs; including Scrip for food, funds for transportation needs, etc. The Fund continues to help meet the unexpected and oftentimes emergency financial needs for families.

Scholarship Funds -

Scholarship Funds continue to be provided by the Deacon Fund for ongoing educational and spiritual needs. These scholarships include, but are not limited to, attendance at the Women’s and Men’s retreats, Junior and Senior High Camps and Children camps. If a need is known, please contact your Deacon or one of the pastors.

Meals for Those in Need -

The Deacons coordinate meals for church families in times of need. This need may include families who have just given birth, are suffering the loss of a loved one, are recovering from surgery or suffering from an illness. The meal provider list is renewed at least once a year to include more volunteers in this ministry.

MPC Deacons prepare Thanksgiving food baskets each year....

Transportation -

There are times when flock members require assistance getting to doctors’ appointments, grocery store, and/or worship services. The Deacons also coordinate this important ministry and ask for volunteers to assist.

New Member Luncheon -

The Board of Deacons welcomes new congregational members by hosting a luncheon in their honor. This time provides the opportunity for the new members and their Deacon to become acquainted and to begin a caring dialogue from the beginning of their membership at Moorpark Presbyterian.

Thank You Notes -

The Deacon sends notes of appreciation to persons within our community of faith who have shown special care or thoughtfulness. Notes are also sent to others who have lent support to the church. Let your Deacon or one of the pastors know of those to be shown appreciation.

Often Asked Questions -

How do I find out who my Deacon is?

Member families are assigned a Deacon and the Deacon should be contacting you on a regular basis. However, if you have missed those calls, contact one of the pastors or the Deacon Moderator. Or, to find your deacon - click here to send an email request.

If I have a confidential Prayer need, can I trust that my Deacon will not share it with others?

Deacons share a strong respect for the confidentiality of the matters of families within our community of faith. Great sensitivity is exercised in dealing with situations that come before the individual Deacon or the Board collectively. If you share a concern with your Deacon, it will remain confidential. If there is help that is available to you by bringing the concern before the Board of Deacons, or notifying one of the pastors, that will be discussed with you before being done.

If someone in my home becomes ill and we need help, is it okay to call on my deacon for help?

Not only is it okay, it is encouraged! Communication goes both ways and your Deacon will welcome your call of any nature. We especially want to know when there is a crisis or other need so we can care for you and help you. We want to be able to help with errands and other needs on a short term basis to help you get back on your feet again. So, YES, please call.

When do the Deacons meet and what do they do at the meetings?

The Board of Deacons meets on the first Tuesday of each month. At this time the Board determines disbursement of monies from the Fund, plans for servers of Communion, New Member Luncheons, prays for the needs, joys and blessings brought to the meeting. The Deacons also receive training in how to more effectively meet the needs of the congregation.

Is it Possible to Change Deacons?

Yes. We want you to have a caring, prayerful person to turn to in the time of need and joy! If, for some reason you are not experiencing this, then another Deacon can be assigned to offer that support for you. Contact one of the pastors with your request and it will be met.

Is the money I contribute to the Deacon Fund used to Help Members of our Congregation only?

Primarily, yes. There are a few occasions when help is provided to those outside the church. This is normally to meet a community need, rather than an individual need.

May I contact my Deacon at any time with prayer needs or joys?

Yes! Your Deacon wants to pray for you and be a caring support for you and your family at all times.