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Deacons:
Quiet Servants, Faithful Ministry
Deacons at Columbia Congregational Church serve alongside our pastor to support the worship life and care of our congregation. They help prepare for and serve during worship and support pastor during baptisms, funerals, and special services throughout the church year. Deacons also help welcome people on Sunday mornings, care for the sanctuary, support the pastor’s ministry, and keep track of attendance and needs in our church family. Their goal is to make sure everyone who comes through our doors is welcomed, supported, and surrounded by Christ’s love.
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Worship:
Deacon's Responsibilites
WelcomeÂ
We welcome every person in any walk of life and from any path along life’s journey. This includes all attendees at worship whether they have been a member for years or 1 day, are joining us for the first time or watching on YouTube.Â
Offertory
We currently are not passing the plates during the service however the Deacons ensure that plates or other vessels to accept your offering are available at both entrances as well as a QR code for donating online.
Funerals & Weddings
Deacons assist the pastor and families during weddings & funerals by preparing the sanctuary, welcoming guests, and offering quiet support.
Lighting of the Alter Candles
Lighting of candles is done by the Deacon, an acolyte, or by a volunteer. The Christ Candle is lit first symbolizing Christ with us. Then the Peace Candle (sits to the right of Christ candle), and then the 2 taller alter candles.
Taking the Light into the World
In reverse of lighting the candles, we extinguish them, leaving the Christ Candle lit. The person extinguishing the candles will walk the still lit Christ Candle to the back of the church symbolizing bringing the light with us as we leave.
Pastor's Review
Deacons support the pastor’s ministry by offering feedback, participating in the annual review process, and helping ensure the pastor is cared for as they care for the congregation. Once a year, Deacons collaborate with the President, Vice President and Pastoral Relations team to write Pastor's review.
Communion
The spirit of Christ is represented in the breaking of bread and drinking of 'wine'. Monthly we gather to be fed by this spirit. All are welcome to partake in Communion at our church. The Deacons prepare the bread and juice (gluten-free bread and grape juice) and assist the Pastor as needed with distribution to all.
Baptisms
Within the United Church of Christ, baptism is a sacred sacrament of grace—a beautiful beginning in Christ and a loving welcome into God's family. Through water, we celebrate divine love and mercy. We invite everyone to this path, from infants and youth to new adult believers.
On Going Activities
Join Our Ministry
Deacons have 2 Elected members and up to 6 additional Deacons and helpers. Â
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Interested in becoming a Deacon or Helper? We'd love to hear from you! Reach out to the church office or complete the Contact Me form.