Diaconal Ministries Canada is not episcopalian, but their clarity of understanding of the deacon’s ministry, and the practicality with which they work it out, make their resources inspiring and helpful. Here in the Church of England we have a long way to go, to educate our church into understanding that the diaconal form of leadership is collaborative and enabling. DMC really get it!
They see eight tasks for deacons to exercise their spiritual leadership, and here’s a taster:
1. EQUIP AND MOBILIZE THE CHURCH
Ephesians 4:11-13
It is the primary role of the Deacon to remind God’s Church that each person is called to diaconal work, according to his/her gifts and abilities.
- Regularly communicate to the membership on diaconal work being done, future plans, and how they can get involved.
2. LEAD AS EQUALS
“By His Spirit God equips… leaders so that believers may grow in faith, develop disciplined Christian living, serve others in selfless love, and share with all the good news of salvation… Deacons and elders, together with the ministers, are responsible for the general administration of the church.” This ‘principle of parity’ ensures FULL representation of the church.
- Given the different gifts, responsibilities, and mandates of Deacons, Elders and Pastors, it is important that all three be represented at Classis and Synod meetings in order to listen, pray, and assist in the hearing of God’s voice and the leading of His church.
Here’s the rest of the document: https://diaconalministries.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/01/FINAL-Top-Leadership-Tasks-of-a-Deacon-handout-2020.pdf
CofE Network of Distinctive Deacons 