COMPASSION

SERVICE

SRC Deacons

About

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The ministry of Deacon is set forth in Scripture as one of compassion, witness, service, and sharing in the redeeming love of Jesus Christ for the poor, hungry, sick, lost, friendless, oppressed, those burdened by unjust policies and structures, or anyone in distress. Deacons are persons of spiritual character who are called to lead the congregation in compassion, witness, and service, representing the ministry of Spanish River Church.

Mercy for All

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Global Mission

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Committed Community

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Kingdom Hospitality

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Sacrificial Generosity

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The Scriptures

Mercy for All · Global Mission · Committed Community · Kingdom Hospitality . Sacrificial Generosity . The Scriptures

Diaconate’s Impact

2025

  • 310 care cases served

  • $203,000+ distributed in assistance

    Assistance categories included:

    • Rent & mortgage

    • Utilities & gas

    • Food assistance

    • Medical needs

    • Vehicle & home repairs

    • Transportation

    • Counseling support  

Support the Deacon’s Benevolence Fund

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Your generosity helps provide: 

  • Emergency housing support

  • Food assistance

  • Medical care support

  • Transportation needs

  • Counseling assistance 

 

Every dollar designated to the Deacon Benevolence Fund goes directly to helping individuals and families in need. 

Tap to Give

The Book of Church Order outlines the office of Deacon as one of service and compassion, mirroring Christ’s example. Deacons are responsible for ministering to those in need, developing generosity within the congregation, and (at times) managing church property, all under the supervision of the Session: governing body of Elders. Deacons are not primarily involved in ruling or governance of the church, but rather focus on practical ministry and care.

What is a Deacon?

  • Deacons are called to serve the church and community, particularly those who are poor, sick, or in distress.

  • They manage the church’s financial and physical resources, at times ensuring proper care of church property.

  • Deacons are responsible for distributing funds collected to the poor and needy.

  • Deacons are responsible for distributing funds collected to the poor and needy.

  • Deacons must meet specific qualifications, including being dignified, honest, and faithful in their service.

SRC Diaconate Fun Facts

  • Every request involves multiple deacons for discernment and accountability.

    Depending on the amount requested, up to 7 deacons, plus the chairman, may be required to approve a disbursement.

    This ensures wise stewardship of God’s resources.

  • Funds are never given directly to the requester.

    Payments are made directly to creditors (such as utility companies, landlords, or counselors).

    This guarantees the money is used exactly for the intended need.

  • Requestors are often asked to:

    • Work toward solutions (job search, budgeting, etc.)

    • Participate in financial counseling

    • Follow an action plan

  • Deacons don’t just handle finances; they provide pastoral care.

    During meetings, they:

    • Pray with the requestor

    • Offer encouragement

    • Share the gospel if appropriate

    • Encourage connection to a church community

    The goal is transformation, not just transactions.

Letters of Gratitude

Every care case handled by the Spanish River Church Diaconate represents a real person, a real family, and a moment when Christ’s compassion was shared through His church.

Below are short excerpts from letters and messages received from individuals and families helped through the Deacon Benevolence Fund and casework ministry. 

“Good afternoon ….I just wanted to say thank you for the help I got… It truly made a difference for my family during a very difficult time…Deacon Michael called me. I want to thank God for him because he took my situation like his own… all I saw was the spirit of service in him, his dedication made me realize what truly serving in Christ is.” 

“Dear Spanish River Church… Thank you for the generous financial aid in my time of need. I am grateful for the help toward my rent. If not for your assistance, I do not know where we would be.” 

“Thank you… you were such an important part of helping our family at this critical time. You gave us breathing room and hope when we needed it most.” 

  • SRC deacons help people with real needs, such as:

    • Food

    • Housing

    • Transportation

    • Counseling

    • Emergency assistance

    Every case represents a real person or family whose life can be changed through compassion.

  • Each case is handled with a partner deacon and a team.

    • Deacons work in teams of 4–6 men

    • Partner deacons help with discernment

    • Major decisions involve multiple deacons

    This creates strong brotherhood and shared wisdom.

  • Being a deacon is not just about giving money; it’s about helping people move forward.

    Deacons:

    • Listen to people’s stories

    • Investigate needs carefully

    • Help create action plans

    • Encourage responsibility and growth

    It’s a hands-on ministry that truly helps people change direction.

  • Deacons often:

    • Pray with people in difficult situations

    • Share encouragement from Scripture

    • Invite people to church

    • Help people reconnect with God and community

    For many requestors, a deacon may be the first person to bring hope into their situation.

  • Serving as a deacon helps men grow in:

    • Biblical wisdom

    • Spiritual discernment

    • Compassion

    • Leadership

    • Financial stewardship

    It’s a powerful way to grow in your faith while serving others.

  • Deacons regularly witness:

    • Unexpected provision

    • People turning their lives around

    • Families restored

    • People finding church community

    You get a front-row seat to God’s work in people’s lives.

  • Working through difficult situations together creates deep relationships among deacons.

    Many deacons say one of the biggest blessings is the camaraderie and spiritual fellowship with other men serving.

  • SRC’s mission is:

    “We’re on a mission to bring the transforming life and love of Jesus Christ to our members, neighbors, and the nations, in every generation, through the Gospel proclaimed in word, deed, and signs.”

    Deacons play a critical role in that mission, helping people not only meet urgent needs, but also experience transformation in Christ.

Become an SRC Deacon

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An man with glasses wearing a blue polo shirt and a woman with curly blonde hair wearing a red top having a conversation indoors, with books displayed on a shelf in the background and a plant nearby.
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INTERESTED IN BECOMING A DEACON? HAVE QUESTIONS?

Contact Us

Tap to Email the SRC Diaconate

Our Process

  • Geometric drawing of an outline square with sections divided by vertical, horizontal, and diagonal lines.

    Initial Review and Contact

  • Geometric drawing of an outline square with sections divided by vertical, horizontal, and half circle lines.

    Meet and Assess the Need

  • Geometric drawing of an outline square with sections divided by vertical, horizontal, and circle lines.

    Investigate and Make a Decision

  • Geometric drawing of an outline square with sections divided by vertical, horizontal, and diagonal lines.

    Disperse Assistance and Follow Up