DEACONESS
A deaconess is an ordained or commissioned woman who serves in the Christian church
DEACONESS
In the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) Church, a deaconess is a consecrated laywoman appointed by the pastor to serve the congregation. Her primary duties include assisting with Holy Communion and baptisms, visiting the sick, ministering to the poor, and maintaining the spiritual order of the church
Barbara Rush, Ministry Leader
The Deaconess Boards
Duties and responsibilities include the following:
- To prepare the Elements for the services of Holy Communion, and Holy Baptism.
- To assist with special services such as weddings, funerals, or candlelight services as requested.
- To care for the Altar and the space in the Sanctuary which is enclosed within the Chancel area
- To care for and change the paraments to the proper seasonal color; linens, and all items associated with worship and special services as needed
The duties of the deaconesses shall be to encourage, foster and improve the general interests of the church; promote the comfort and solicit the friendship and sympathy of the general public; cheer the fallen; feed the hungry; clothe the naked; seek out the homeless; encourage thrift; visit mental health institutions and prisons, and save the lost.
PASTOR'S AIDE
Pastor’s Aide Ministry is a dedicated church committee that provides spiritual, emotional, and financial support to the pastor and their family. Volunteers coordinate appreciation events, assist with pulpit needs, and provide care so the pastor can focus on ministry.
Our Mission
The Pastor's Aide Ministry is committed to supporting our pastor through prayer, encouragement, hospitality, and acts of service, providing spiritual, emotional, and practical care that enables effective leadership and faithful ministry.
Joye Slade, Ministry Lead
Key Responsibilities
The role is centered on being a "servant to the servant," ensuring the pastoral family feels appreciated and cared for:
* Special Occasions: Celebrating the pastor's birthday, anniversary, or pastoral milestones with love offerings, gifts, and receptions.
* Pulpit & Office Support: Preparing the pastor's pulpit area before service, supplying robes or clerical wear, and organizing necessary materials.
* Hospitality: Stocking the pastor’s study with refreshments, providing meals during revivals, and assisting visiting guest preachers.
* Travel Assistance: Packing care packages for trips, or even organizing transportation and accommodations when the pastor preaches at other locations
