Our Board of Deacons and Shepherds

Purpose of the Board of Deacons:

To fulfill the responsibilities expressed in the Book of Order (G-6.0400):

"The office of deacon as set forth in Scripture is one of sympathy, witness, and service after the example of Jesus Christ... 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."

Circle of Care with Shepherds

Divide FHPC membership into the Circles of Care and with the shepherds have a close contact with the members of the group.  Schedule the training for shepherds and distribution of lists.  Two social functions a year for the entire group would help bring the Circle of Care members closer together, but the shepherds and Deacon need to be in close contact with each member to know their joys and their concerns and to show the members that Fort Hill loves them.  Includes recruiting and training shepherds.

Blood Drive

Held in the spring and fall to enable members to be donors to the Carolina Blood Bank and also enable our members to use the services if needed.  Coordination needed with scheduled times of Blood Bank Van, advertising the dates within the church, and volunteers to "man" the desk during the time period.

Flowers

Flowers in the sanctuary during worship service — delivery to the homebound or special people if the donor does not want to take the flowers.

Transportation

Transportation (includes to/from worship services, special services, and individual transportation trips as needed by our members to doctors' appointments, etc.).  Coordinate the Driver schedule on Sunday mornings and coordinate the volunteers for individual needs of our members.

Food for Special Needs and Bereavement Meals

This could be a family in crisis, hospitalization, or death.  It will be providing the nourishment for the individual or family in a loving and caring manner.  This can be coordinated with PW, SS classes, and various other church groups.

Receptions

Receptions for funerals, special events, honoring members over 95, etc.  Volunteers are needed and coordination by the Deacons.

Mini-Courses/Events

Mini-courses/events under the supervision of the Deacons if the topics are designated as Deacons' concerns.

Books for Babies

As part of the caring ministry of the Deacons, the delivery of the books, cradle crosses, etc. will be a part of the joy of sharing with the families in addition of the newest/youngest members of the congregation.

First Aid Kits

Keep First Aid Kits updated.

Temporary Medical Equipment Need

Provide to people who have short term need for walkers, wheelchairs, etc.

Prayer Shawl Ministry

Prayer Shawl Ministry was started in the late 2008 and meets monthly to make knitted or crocheted shawls and then provides shawls to members in times of need or celebration.