Board of Deacons

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. They shall assume such other duties as may be delegated to them from time to time by the session, such as leading the people in worship through prayers of intercession, reading the Scriptures, presenting the gifts of the people, and assisting with the Lord’s Supper.


Our membership is divided into “parishes” and a deacon is assigned to each “parish.” Deacons share in offering visitation and support to members. 


To find a map of the “parishes” visit Spencer Hall, or contact the church office for more information at 239.262.1311.


The Deacons stay in contact with their assigned “parishes” and report any ministry concerns to the pastoral staff and the Stephen Ministers.


Deacons serve on at least one of the Deacon Committees:


  • Receptions & Events
  • Health Fair
  • Flower Distribution
  • Blood Bank
  • Holiday Remembrances
  • Friendship Pads


Deacons may be appointed by governing bodies to serve on committees. The session may select and appoint other members of the congregation to assist the deacons in their ministry of compassion.

Stephen Ministry

What is Stephen Ministry?

  • It is a ministry named after St. Stephen, who was the first to be commissioned by the apostles to care for the needs of the early church. 
  • It is an ecumenical worldwide ministry of more than 10,000 congregations.
  • It is a one-on-one Christian ministry by trained, caring, and commissioned laity of the church.
  • It is a specific response to Christ's greatest commandment, "...love one another as I have loved you."
  • It is a private, distinctively Christian one-on-one ministry relationship focusing on the unique needs of each person for in-depth care.


Stephen Ministers Provide Christian Outreach Care for Many Difficult Life Issues


  • Experiencing the stresses of life
  • Hospitalization
  • Chronic or Terminal illness
  • Employment loss or financial crisis
  • Life transitions
  • Marital separation or divorce
  • New babies
  • Depression
  • Death of a loved one
  • New to our Church
  • Struggling with their faith in God


If you are interested in becoming a Stephen Minister or know of someone who may need a Stephen Minister, please contact either Rev. Craig Goodrich or Rev. Rex Childs.


Congregational Care Ministry

Congregational Care Ministry is a group of caring people who visit our members in rehabilitation, nursing homes, the homebound and the convalescing.  This is a wonderful ministry that shares their discipleship by visiting, calling and/or sending cards of encouragement to those unable to attend church. 


Helping Hands Ministries

This group operates under the direction of the Presbyterian Women and meets twice a month (with the exception of the summer months) and you don't have to be there each week. Join them when you can.  Anyone that sews, knits or crochets is welcome to join them.


Prayer Shawl Ministry

The shawl maker begins with prayers and blessings for the recipient. The intentions are continued throughout the creation of the shawl. Upon completion, a final blessing is offered:


"We call forth blessings from above in the name of God, Creator, Giver of Life and Holder of Time. In the name of Jesus, Savior, Comforter, Consoler and Sustainer of Life. May this shawl be a mantle of caring, of protection, of wholeness, of strength, of healing and patience. May this shawl enfold, encircle and empower. Amen"

Prayer shawl patterns are available so you can work at home.
 

Sew & Sews Ministry

The Sew and Sews have challenged themselves to make a quilt for each family as a “house warming gift” when they move into their new home at the Immokalee Fair Housing project. 

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