Co-Chairs: Kathy Frazier and Susan Gildart
A group of twelve Deacons (church members) form the Diaconate or Board of Deacons and are led by a Chairperson or Co-Chairs. We assist our Pastor in caring for the spiritual lives of all who attend our church by guiding and promoting the spiritual life of Hammond Street Congregational Church, United Church of Christ, to the glory of God and Jesus Christ.
We are honored to work with our Pastor on every element of Sunday worship service from usher help, altar flowers, candle lighting, the sound system, special services, and Communion. Although you will see us serving communion and greeting each person who comes through our doors, many of our duties are behind the scene.
We prepare the elements for Communion, set The Lord’s Table, assist the Pastor in serving Communion, and after worship, serve Home Communion to those people who could not attend church. We also deliver flowers to our shut-ins.
Rev. Clyde Baker extends our ministry by making home visits to first time visitors with a small gift. It’s a real surprise and greatly appreciated.
We are fortunate to have an expert sound system person, George Fricke, who provides the Clergy with microphones, listening devices for our hearing impaired worshipers, and other equipment needed during worship and special events. He not only provides his expertise but maintains the equipment.
Some of the special events are Baptisms, Confirmation, the Shrove Tuesday celebration, Lenten programs, Maundy Thursday, Good Friday, Easter, and Christmas. The Diaconate meets with the Pastor and potential new members. Support is also provided for Rally Day, World Communion Day, Mount View Chamber Singers, Lenten Cross and Advent Wreath Lightings, and Scripture readings.
There are many aspects of being a Deacon. We know that our work and decisions touch all who participate in the life of our beloved church, from a one-time visitor to those who have been attending for decades. It is an awesome and joyful responsibility.