Communications Through the years divine instruction has come to the church concerning the importance of using contemporary communication media in spreading the gospel. We have been counseled: We must take every justifiable means of bringing the light before the people. Let the press be utilized, and let every advertising agency be employed that will call attention to the work.Testimonies, vol. 6, p. 36.
Deaconess Deaconesses were included in the official staff of the early Christian churches. When writing to the Romans, Paul referred to one godly woman in this way. "I commend to you our sister Phoebe, a servant of the church in Cenchrea. I ask you to receive her in the Lord in a way worthy of the saints and to give her any help she may need from you, for she has been a great help to many people, including me." ?Romans 6:1,2. * Here the word "servant" is also rendered "deaconess."
Deacons The word deacon means servant. We use the term "diakonate" for deacons as a body, and the term "diakonia" to describe the work that deacons do (service, support, ministry). The Apostle Paul gave Timothy instructions concerning deacons. He said the deacons must be worthy of respect, not double-tongued but sincere. In essence, 1 Tim. 3:8-13, is all about character, so deacons are expected to serve the church by the example of their character, as well as by their deeds. In the Early Church deacons were chosen (as the need arose) to assist the elders in the temporal work of the church. Their origin is given in Acts 6, which tells how the Jerusalem church selected seven men to administer the finances, to serve tables, and to care for the poor of the congregation (Acts 6: 1-6).
Elders According to Acts 20:28, elders are called, or appointed by the Holy Spirit. When a local church elects and ordains an elder they are simply recognizing and confirming the Spirit's call. Along with church pastors, elders have a tremendous responsibility to their congregations. To elders, Paul says, "Keep watch over yourselves and all the flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. Be shepherds of the church of God, which he bought with his own blood."?Acts 20:28 (NIV).
Hospitality & Culinary Arts The most valuable earthly possession a person can have is a warm, supportive friendship. People without relationships are miserable people, but relationships cannot be purchased. They arise from our innermost needs, grounded in our God-given ability to love and care for others. A growing, healthy church nurtures healthy relationships. In all cultures, friendships are developed through hospitality.
Media Ministry The Media Ministry exists to enhance the worship experience for our guests and members alike.
Religious Liberty Free exercise of religion is like a fragile flower; it must receive the most vigorous protection possible and the most gentle care to be found. Within it, freedom of conscience thrives or is throttled.
Sabbath School Department Join one of our adult Sabbath school lesson study groups. Every week small groups get together to share what they learned from the lesson and how it has made a difference in their lives.
Safety Officer According to Adventist Risk Management and the North American Division, every church should appoint a Church Safety Officer to ensure the safety of those who visit our facilities.
Treasury The work of the church treasurer is sometimes not recognized as a ministry because it is done behind the scenes. Nevertheless, it is a specialized, vital ministry in which the treasurer exercises his or her spiritual gifts. The whole congregation benefits indirectly from the work of the treasurer.
Ushers An usher is equipped for his or her ministry by the gifts of the Holy Spirit. These spiritual gifts are special abilities to make their ministry effective and to build up the body of Christ. When people come to church they are sometimes burdened, sad or discouraged. Each person, member or newcomer, comes with the hope that that Sabbath will be an experience of uplift and inspiration; a time of renewal and celebration. The skillful usher helps to make this a reality for those in attendance.