Life & Work of Deacons

Life & Work of Deacons Conferences

Our Life & Work of Deacons conferences are two-day online events open to all deacons and deacon supporters. Meetings are usually Fridays, 7-9 pm Eastern and Saturdays, Noon-3 pm Eastern. A portion of the time we’ll focus on the inner life of a deacon – who we are as deacons, and what we need to thrive. The other portion we’ll focus on the work of the deacon – what we do!

There is a small charge to attend, or it's free with an automatic renewal annual membership or automatic renewal donation.

Deacons in the New Worshipping Context - Registration is open
Friday, October 11, 7:00 - 9:00 pm, Eastern
Saturday, October 12, 12:00-3:00 pm, Eastern
Online via Zoom

The modern Church is evolving at what seems to be lightening speed and it can be a difficult environment to understand and navigate. The changing roles of the deacon are no exception in this landscape. Of course, this is nothing new for deacons, and other clergy as well. The church has been a place of growth, change, and uncertainty since those first disciples left their homes to follow Jesus in search the eternal truth that is the endless love that comes from God. Bishop Curry tells us that: “Our commitment to be an inclusive church is not based on social theory or the ways of the culture, but on our belief that the outstretched arms of Jesus on the cross are a sign of the very love of God reaching out to us all.”

From the earliest days of the Christian Church, deacons have offered their own ‘outstretched arms’ to all sorts and conditions of humankind. And now, new challenges and opportunities are presenting themselves to the Church in general and to deacons in particular. New understandings of diaconal ministry are being discerned as are the very definitions of what a church might look like and how that worship center might operate. We are being called to evangelize like never before and to establish new and different places for followers of Jesus to gather.

Karen Wiseman reminds us that; “Ministry is messy. The church isn’t perfect. We are all a little crazy. God is really good. You are ridiculously loved.” Join us as we explore this new worshipping landscape and discern what roles deacons might play in this new season for our Church. This workshop will be mostly conversational and collaborative. So bring your stories, your experiences, frustrations, and your questions as we plot our course for the next season of understanding God’s love and His call to servant leadership.

Cost for this two-day event is $20. If you are a member of the Association for Episcopal Deacons, please use Promo Code Member, to attend for free. Thank you for your membership.

If you register as a member but your membership has lapsed, you'll be contacted so you can renew your membership.

Past Life & Work Conferences

Deacons in a Rural Setting - May 31-June 1
Deacons are called to "assist the bishop and priests in the ministration of God's Word and Sacraments." But what if there are no priests or bishop to conduct public worship?

The role of deacons in the future of the Church - October, 2023
Guest presenter was the Rev. Katie Nakamura Rengers, who serves as the Presiding Bishop's Staff Officer for new Episcopal Communities. Recordings: October 13 (code:SmVAX+35). October 14 (code HiS3&k2b)

Public Policy Advocacy - Feb. 2023
What is policy advocacy and how is it different from and complementary to political activism? For those hesitant to be involved in such work, or seeking to push for engagement. With Alan Yarborough from the Episcopal Public Policy Network (EPPN), developing policy advocacy, dialogue and civic engagement resources.