Robin Simmons

Well, the role of a Deacon, in the Bible, is ambiguous. It comes from the Greek word “Diakonos”, which translated means: servant, or someone who serves.
Webster defines it as “a lay assistant to the pastor”. I have been serving as a deacon over the past few years. Although, at first, I was a little hesitant and nervous, I’ve come to really enjoy helping others with their needs and being able to serve the body.

Being on the deacons’ board has given me great opportunities to work along side of, and get to know, my fellow deacons; seeing that we share the same heart as the first deacons in the book of Acts, with care and compassion to meet the needs of the widows, orphans, and the poor. Currently serving on the deacons’ board is: Bill Merritt, Phil Pearson, Oksana Sukhaya, Cheryl Hill, and I. The board is overseen by Keith Webb.

Did you know that the deacons oversee the potluck every month? Yes, they make sure that the food is warm, the tables are set, the coffee is made, and the dessert table is ready to go. This is not done by the deacons alone; they are assisted every month by a great group of volunteers, and by two very special and amazing angels, to ensure success so that everyone can fellowship with each other.

Also, the deacons oversee the alms fund. What is the alms fund? It is money that you contribute to assist with basic necessities such as food, clothing, and help with utilities and rent for those who are in need. It also distributes monies out to several different helping ministries.

One story that comes to mind and has touched my heart: There was a family who had recently fallen on hard times and was actually homeless. The children were in need of school clothes and the parents did not have the money to buy them. The deacons’ board was made aware of the situation and decided to help. The family was so moved by this act that it changed their lives forever, inspiring one of the parents to continue their education. Recently they have obtained their own residence and are no longer homeless. They have even helped others out in our church. It’s always so amazing to me to see how God can change someone’s outlook on life with just a small touch of His affection. This is just one of the many stories of needs that have been met over the years and each one has made an impression in my life and the lives of those who have served, and are now serving, on the deacons’ board.

It is SRC Deacons mission statement: “To bring light in this darkness, hope to the hopeless and peace to the restless”

Many have served on the deacons’ board and they have each made a significant contribution to the service of this office. It has been an honor to serve with each of them. There are always opportunities for you to serve and, if you feel that this is something that God is calling you to, please talk to me or one of the pastoral staff and let them know your heart. God’s shalom be with you.

Robin Simmons
Chairman of the SRC Deacon Board