The Reformed Deacon

In this episode elder Mike Cloy from Landis OPC in Marion, North Carolina and elder Seth Long from Neon Reformed OPC describe what it was like on the ground the days after the devastating flood hit Neon, Kentucky and the surrounding counties in July of 2022. Neon Reformed, a struggling mission work of the OPC, sits in an region known for extreme poverty and distrust. Sixteen counties in that region were affected by the "1,000-year flood".  Over six feet of water accumulated inside the building of Neon Reformed OPC, leaving distruction in its wake. Disaster Response isn't just about building structures; it's about building hope and restoring worship. Seth and Mike describe the emotional and physical toll on the residents and the way the Lord led many hands to help in the rebuilding of Neon Reformed and the outreach to the community. This effort, powerfully led by the Presbytery of the Southeast, showed what disaster response ought to look like and the many ways that the Lord cares for his people in desperate times.Referenced in this episode:Disaster Response RegistryNeon Reformed OPCOPC Disaster ResponseContact OPC Disaster ResponseOPC Presbytery of the SoutheastWatch all of the PDS V VideosNeon FloodingYou can find all of our episodes at thereformeddeacon.org. Make sure to follow us on your favorite podcast player, so you don't miss an episode. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for giveaways and more information. Find other resources on OPCCDM.org. Make sure to send us some feedback on your podcast player or by going to OPCCDM.org.

Have you ever tried to find the word, "deacon" (or elder for that matter) in the Westminster Standards? If you have, you probably couldn't find it, because it isn't referred to explicitly by name. Does that mean the Standards aren't important for deacons to study?  Listen as Westminster Assembly scholar Dr. Chad Van Dixhoorn describes the profound impact the Westminster Standards has on the role of Reformed deacons. His expertise provides a glimpse into the spiritual requirements of a deacon and gives insight to the Westminster Standards as they relate to deacons. In this episode, Dr. Van Dixhoorn answers questions from a hypothetical deacon-in-training named Bob, who, after being given the Standards to study, questions their relevance to deacons.Dr. Van Dixhoorn navigates through the importance of the Confession of Faith and Catechisms in maintaining unity and transparency in doctrine. Dr. Van Dixhoorn's insights remind us that the role of a deacon extends far beyond the ordinary, offering solace and motivation through the communion of saints. As we conclude, we're left with a renewed appreciation for the Westminster Standards' relevance and an affirmation of their critical use in Christ's church.Referenced in this episode:The Minutes and Papers of the Westminster Assembly  1643-1653 by Dr. Chad Van DixhoornConfessing the Faith by Dr. Chad VanDixhoornThe Westminster Standards (including the Westminster Confession of Faith, Larger and Shorter Catechism.)The Deacon: The Biblical Roots and the Ministry of Mercy TodayYou can find all of our episodes at thereformeddeacon.org. Make sure to follow us on your favorite podcast player, so you don't miss an episode. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for giveaways and more information. Find other resources on OPCCDM.org. Make sure to send us some feedback on your podcast player or by going to OPCCDM.org.

In this episode, you'll hear a recording from the Presbytery Diaconal Committee's fifth Summit hosted by the OPC Committees on Diaconal Ministries and Ministerial Care entitled, "Overview of the PDC Mandate and the Role of the CDM". You'll hear from OPC Committee on Diaconal Ministries administrator, David Nakhla, who presents the long history of the CDM, which has now existed for 76 years, to demonstrate that a great emphasis of the OPC, even from the beginning, has been to recognize the importance of the ministry of mercy. Nakhla points out in this session that the OPC was born out of poverty, during the Great Depression, when only three out of 48 churches were able to keep their buildings after leaving the PCUSA. He then re-introduces a working document of the CDM entitled, “Proposed Mandate for the Work of the PDC.” This document, compiled by the CDM in 2012, was built using the varied mandates of the seventeen PDCs and serves to suggest what a comprehensive scope of an active PDC could be. Although not yet adopted in full by all the presbyteries, the CDM has been encouraged to see the positive impact it has had in the ministry of the regional church in those presbyteries that have allowed it to shape its ministries of mercy. Although the content of this PDS session is primarily focused toward those serving on Presbytery Diaconal Committees, we trust you'll find that many aspects of the talk will benefit local deacons with food for thought, even with inspiration that comes from thinking outside the box. We urge you to avail yourself of the resources you'll hear about in this episode and let us know if you want to know more about these topics or Presbytery Diaconal Committees. We'll be releasing the last two sessions of PDS V on The Reformed Deacon podcast in the months to come, so be sure to look for them.Referenced in this episode:Proposed PDC MandateSample PDC Meeting Agenda Other PDC ResourcesYou can find all of our episodes at thereformeddeacon.org. Make sure to follow us on your favorite podcast player, so you don't miss an episode. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for giveaways and more information. Find other resources on OPCCDM.org. Make sure to send us some feedback on your podcast player or by going to OPCCDM.org.

In this episode, Shiloh OPC, Raleigh, NC Deacon and CDM member Tim Hopper welcomes Dr. Jim Newheiser, professor at Reformed Theological Seminary in Charlotte, NC and author of the book, "Money, Debt and Finances: Critical Questions and Answers." Dr. Newheiser says the goal of his book is to bring together finance, accounting, and investing with a Biblical perspective that is rooted in sound theology. "I really believe in the sufficiency of Scripture to guide us in life," he says.  In this episode, Dr. Newheiser wisely points out that we have freedom to spend money, "and we can't tell someone how to spend, but to use godly wisdom. So much of our life involves our vocation, our responsibility to provide, [and] our stewardship of the resources God has given us."Referenced in this episode:"Money, Debt and Finances: Critical Questions and Answers" by Dr. Jim Newheiser Review of "Money, Debt and Finances: Critical Questions and Answers" from New Horizons December 2021Financial Crisis: What to Do When the Bottom Drops Out by Jim NewheiserMoney: Seeking God's Wisdom (31-Day Devotionals for Life) by Jim NewheiserHow to Love Difficult Parents: Wisdom for a Challenging Relationship by Jim NewheiserThe Institue for Biblical Counseling and DiscipleshipYou can find all of our episodes at thereformeddeacon.org. Make sure to follow us on your favorite podcast player, so you don't miss an episode. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for giveaways and more information. Find other resources on OPCCDM.org. Make sure to send us some feedback on your podcast player or by going to OPCCDM.org.

In this episode, Rev. John Shaw, pastor and former OPC general secretary for Home Missions and Church Extension (CHMCE) addresses the OPC Presbytery Diaconal Committee (PDC) members at the recent OPC Presbytery Diaconal Summit (PDS) to share some of the challenges he experienced in planting churches when there are no deacons. John points out the  overwhelming mercy ministry needs of a new, young church that often fall on new pastors and the need for the unique gifts of deacons in these fledgling congregations. What's the answer? John has some suggestions.Although the content of this PDS session is primarily focused toward those serving on Presbytery Diaconal Committees, we trust you'll find that many aspects of the talk will benefit local deacons with food for thought, even with inspiration that comes from thinking outside the box. We urge you to avail yourself of the resources you'll hear about in this episode and let us know if you want to know more about these topics or Presbytery Diaconal Committees. We plan to release each of the PDS sessions throughout 2024 on The Reformed Deacon podcast, so be sure to look for them.Referenced in this episode:The OPC Committee on Ministerial CareThe Committee on Home Missions and Church ExtensionContact the OPC Committee on Home Missions and Church Extension: ophomemissions@opc.orgThe Reformed Deacon podcastThe OPC Committee on Diaconal MinistriesYou can find all of our episodes at thereformeddeacon.org. Make sure to follow us on your favorite podcast player, so you don't miss an episode. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for giveaways and more information. Find other resources on OPCCDM.org. Make sure to send us some feedback on your podcast player or by going to OPCCDM.org.

In this episode, The Reformed Deacon producer and long-time OPC deacon's wife, Trish Duggan, hosts two other seasoned OPC deacons' wives, Rachel Engeltjes and Michele Martzke from Bethel OPC in Wheaton, IL. I Timothy 3 gives a clear directive to deacons' wives, so we thought we'd ask Rachel and Michelle for their thoughts on family life, living in a fishbowl, and how they've been able to support their husbands in this important, and sometimes demanding role. Referenced in this episode:The OPC Book of Church Order (regarding deacons)I Timothy 3:8-13 (regarding deacons and deacons' wives)You can find all of our episodes at thereformeddeacon.org. Make sure to follow us on your favorite podcast player, so you don't miss an episode. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for giveaways and more information. Find other resources on OPCCDM.org. Make sure to send us some feedback on your podcast player or by going to OPCCDM.org.

In this episode Tim Hopper, Shiloh OPC, Raleigh, NC deacon and CDM member,  facilitates a discussion with fellow OPC deacons: Bob Keys, a deacon from Grace OPC in Columbus, Ohio, Doug Vos, deacon at Oakland Hills OPC in Farmington Hills, Michigan and John Voss, a deacon Covenant OPC, Orland Park, Illinois and a fellow CDM member. These four men humbly share their experiences and wisdom as they discuss three diaconal cases. The first is about a couple who attends church regularly asking the deacons to provide cash, food or gas in exchange for working for the church.  The second, a new member asks for a loan to purchase a car and the third, a man approaches a deacon asking for him to help provide an anonymous gift to a family in the church. Deacons, do you know what you would do?The diaconal summits that Doug Vos refers to can be found on our website: OPCCDM.org and in audio form in previous episodes of The Reformed Deacon.Referenced in this episode:Regarding loneliness, please read the August-September issue of Ordained Servant: The Plague of Loneliness.The Canadian & American Reformed Churches: Form for the Ordination of Elders and DeaconsYou can find all of our episodes at thereformeddeacon.org. Make sure to follow us on your favorite podcast player, so you don't miss an episode. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for giveaways and more information. Find other resources on OPCCDM.org. Make sure to send us some feedback on your podcast player or by going to OPCCDM.org.

In this episode, Rev. John Fikkert, the director of the OPC Committee on Ministerial Care (CMC) addressed the group of Presbytery Diaconal Committee (PDC) members at the recent Presbytery Diaconal Summit (PDS) to thank them for their work with his committee in coming alongside current and retired ministers and their wives. John says, "Thank you for wading through some difficult, challenging situations...I think PDCs are essential if we're thinking about how to care for ministers.” Although the content of this PDS session is primarily focused toward those serving on Presbyterian diaconal committees, we trust you'll find that many aspects of the talk will benefit local deacons with food for thought, even with inspiration that comes from thinking outside the box. We urge you to avail yourself of the resources you'll hear about in this episode and let us know if you want to know more about these topics or Presbytery Diaconal Committees. We plan to release each of the PDS sessions throughout 2024 on The Reformed Deacon podcast, so be sure to look for them. Referenced in this episode: OPCCMC.orgFARE Program Contact John Fikkert: john.fikkert@opc.orgContact Anneke Fesko, Care Coordinator, Ministers' Wives: anneke.fesko@opc.orgChristians, Churches, and Public Aid, Part 1 by Rev. David Van DrunenChristians, Churches, and Public Aid, Part 2 by Rev. David Van DrunenOPCCDM.orgYou can find all of our episodes at thereformeddeacon.org. Make sure to follow us on your favorite podcast player, so you don't miss an episode. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for giveaways and more information. Find other resources on OPCCDM.org. Make sure to send us some feedback on your podcast player or by going to OPCCDM.org.

Elders and deacons working in conjunction for the good of their flock is of great importance to the health of any local church but the way to go about that is not always well-defined.  In this episode, Rev. Stephen Tracey talks with David Nakhla and Jeffrey Roach, a deacon at Resurrection Presbyterian Church in Matthews, North Carolina, about thoughts on best practices for the two offices: good communication, having joint meetings, using discretion, and practicing joint visitation. This episode has been graciously provided by the Committee on Christian Education's OPC Ruling Elder Podcast, which aired in September of this year.Referenced in this episode: The Deacon: The Biblical Roots and the Ministry of Mercy TodayHelpful articles pertaining to this episode from Ordained Servant:“Balancing Sensitivity and Stewardship in Diaconal Assistance.” 7:3 (Jul. 1998): 67.“The Biblical Foundation of the Diaconate.” (George W. Knight III) 5:3 (Jul. 1996): 66-68.“Are Deacons Members of the Session?” (R. Dean Anderson, Jr.) 2:4 (Oct. 1993): 75-78.“Pointers for Elders and Deacons, Part 1.” 2:3 (Jul. 1993): 59-64.“Pointers for Elders and Deacons, Part 2.” 2:4 (Oct. 1993): 79-85.“Pointers for Elders and Deacons, Part 3.” 3:1 (Jan. 1994): 3-8.“A Proposed Job Description for a Deacon.” (A. G. Edwards III) 4:1 (Jan. 1995): 3-5.“Reforming the Diaconate, Part 1.” (William Shishko) 1:2 (Apr. 1992): 43-45.“Reforming the Diaconate, Part 2.” (William Shishko) 1:3 (Sep. 1992): 63-66.“Reforming the Diaconate, Part 3.” (William Shishko) 2:1 (Jan. 1993): 16-18.“Some Old Testament Roots and Their Continuing Significance.” (C. Van Dam) 1:1 (Jan. 1992): 14-21.You can find other helpful resources on OPCCDM.org.You can find all of our episodes at thereformeddeacon.org. Make sure to follow us on your favorite podcast player, so you don't miss an episode. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for giveaways and more information. Find other resources on OPCCDM.org. Make sure to send us some feedback on your podcast player or by going to OPCCDM.org.

In this episode, Rev. Chris Cashen and Rev. Matt Holst explore 2 Kings 4 through the eyes of a deacon. As Matt points out, although this is not an obvious passage for deacons, it does include aspects of diaconal work, like caring for the widow by way of encouraging souls, and providing relief from distress. Matt insightfully notes that within this prophetical role of Elisha's there is clearly an element of mercy ministry and believes that if this situation presented itself at his church, his deacons would most certainly care for this widow and her sons.Deacons, we hope you will be encouraged by this passage as you serve in your local church. Tell us what you think! Leave a comment on your podcast player.You can find all of our episodes at thereformeddeacon.org. Make sure to follow us on your favorite podcast player, so you don't miss an episode. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for giveaways and more information. Find other resources on OPCCDM.org. Make sure to send us some feedback on your podcast player or by going to OPCCDM.org.

In this episode CDM Administrator David Nakhla talks with former refugee Okuch Ojullo about his time in a refugee camp and how the Lord led him to Himself in amazingly unique and surprising ways. Okuch, born in South Sudan, became a Christian in his early teens. His life was not easy. He reluctantly lived in a refugee camp in Kenya for three years after leaving his home to avoid service in the rebel army and to search out an education—one he would not have received had he stayed at home. This former refugee now serves as lecturer and academic dean at Knox Theological College, in Mbale, Uganda alongside OPC Missionary Charles Jackson. You can find all of our episodes at thereformeddeacon.org. Make sure to follow us on your favorite podcast player, so you don't miss an episode. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for giveaways and more information. Find other resources on OPCCDM.org. Make sure to send us some feedback on your podcast player or by going to OPCCDM.org.

In this episode CDM administrator David Nakhla and producer Trish Duggan sit down with OPC missionary Heero Hacquebord,  MTW Ukraine country director, Doug Shepherd and L'viv Crates for Ukraine warehouse manager Ruslan. This devastating war continues and the need is greater than it's ever been. Heero summarizes the Crates for Ukraine program's essentialness: "Crates is one way for us to show people we are not here to take advantage of them. Our church is not here to get people's money, you know, to brainwash their kids or, you know, whatever the stereotypes may be. But we are really here to serve. People see the Protestant church, or our church, in this particular case and in many ways, much more so than the Orthodox Church.  Some of the more traditional churches in Ukraine stepping up in the face of this horrible war in Ukraine and saying, hey, you know what the church is about, loving people, showing Christ's love and helping to meet people's needs. And so people begin to see us in a different light."Find more detailed information about Crates for UkraineItems for prayer: https://www.cratesforukraine.com/ Scroll down to the green box You can find all of our episodes at thereformeddeacon.org. Make sure to follow us on your favorite podcast player, so you don't miss an episode. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for giveaways and more information. Find other resources on OPCCDM.org. Make sure to send us some feedback on your podcast player or by going to OPCCDM.org.

Have you wondered if it's loving to employ a care facility for your loved one? Or how to know when and how to help manage an elderly loved one's finances? In this episode hosts David Nakhla and Chris Cashen find out more about what our responsibilities are as deacons—and Christians—in caring for the elderly.  Rev. Brian De Jong, pastor of Grace Presbyterian Church in Sheboygan, Wisconsin along with his brother, elder at Bethel OPC in Wheaton, IL, Greg De Jong, share insights from Brian's book, Honoring the Elderly: A Christian's Duty to Aging Parents. Greg worked with Brian on the book to share their practical, spiritual and financial experience in order to help those who are caring for the elderly or supporting someone who cares for an elderly loved one.  There's some great discussion you won't want to miss. Referenced in this episode: Honoring the Elderly: A Christian's Duty to Aging ParentsYou can find all of our episodes at thereformeddeacon.org. Make sure to follow us on your favorite podcast player, so you don't miss an episode. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for giveaways and more information. Find other resources on OPCCDM.org. Make sure to send us some feedback on your podcast player or by going to OPCCDM.org.

In this episode, host David Nakhla talks with John Shaw, OPC Home Missions and Church Extension General Secretary; Tyler Detrick, pastor of Light of the Nations OPC in Dayton, OH and former church planter; and Kurt Oliver, elder at Westminster OPC in Westminster, CA, about the need for deacons when starting a new church in the OPC. Why when we church plant in the OPC are we sure to provide a provisional session, but not a provisional diaconate? John, Tyler and Kurt talk about this and the inherent need for deacons to  aid the session and pastor as they face mercy ministry needs both inside and outside of a new church plant. Should the process of starting churches in the OPC change to include provisional deacons? Listen to the variety of perspectives from this panel of guests.You can find all of our episodes at thereformeddeacon.org. Make sure to follow us on your favorite podcast player, so you don't miss an episode. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for giveaways and more information. Find other resources on OPCCDM.org. Make sure to send us some feedback on your podcast player or by going to OPCCDM.org.

In this episode, four seasoned deacons look at four different cases; three having to do with saints within the congregation and one really unique one regarding a visitor to  Vacation Bible School. Deacon and CDM member, Tim Hopper facilitates this discussion with Bob Keys, a deacon from Grace OPC in Columbus, Ohio, Lynne Hunter, a deacon at Harvest OPC in Wyoming, Michigan and Daniel Lascaze, a deacon from Amoskeag OPC in Manchester, New Hampshire.  The consensus? Know your congregation, be proactive, and let the Gospel of Jesus Christ show in all you do.Share this episode with your fellow deacons or present these scenarios at your next deacon's meeting for discussion!You can find all of our episodes at thereformeddeacon.org. Make sure to follow us on your favorite podcast player, so you don't miss an episode. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for giveaways and more information. Find other resources on OPCCDM.org. Make sure to send us some feedback on your podcast player or by going to OPCCDM.org.

In this episode, Shiloh OPC deacon and OPC CDM member, Tim Hopper and Rev. C. N. Willborn, pastor of Covenant Presbyterian Church (PCA) in Oak Ridge, Tennessee, talk books—books specifically helpful for deacons to have in their personal libraries. From Bible reading plans to reader's guides to books on prayer to counseling, Nick and Tim cover a wide range of their recommended favorites in their discussion.  There are even a few websites and videos they suggest checking out. Nick's wide range of  insight and Tim's thirst for reading and knowledge on the subject of deacons makes this episode invaluable!Referenced in this episode:Resources on the office of deacon Rev. John L GirardeauNotes on Ecclesiology by Thomas PeckThe Deaconship: A Treatise on the Biblical Office by John G.  LorimerThe Deacon by Cornelis Van Dam Presbytery of the Southeast Diaconal Summit 2018 VideosChronological Bible reading plan—Greenville Seminary by Ben ShawThe Westminster Confession of Faith and CatechismsConfessing the Faith: A Reader's Guide to the Westminster Confession of Faith by Chad Van DixhoornThe Presbyterian Standards by Francis R. BeattieCalendar of Readings in the Westminster Standards organized by Dr. Joseph Pipa, Jr.ReformedConfessions.comThe Orthodox Presbyterian Church Book of Church OrderGospel Worship by Jeremiah Burroughs With Reverance and Awe by D.G. Hart and John R. MuetherA Method for Prayer by Matthew Henry (updated)Full list found here: OPCCDM.org.You can find all of our episodes at thereformeddeacon.org. Make sure to follow us on your favorite podcast player, so you don't miss an episode. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for giveaways and more information. Find other resources on OPCCDM.org. Make sure to send us some feedback on your podcast player or by going to OPCCDM.org.

In this episode, host David Nakhla talks with Trinity OPC, Hatboro, Pa. deacon Dave Askey about his church's involvement in the recent denomination-wide ministry project, Crates for Ukraine. Dave shares details about how his church worked together in creative ways to bring the CFU project to completion and how the Lord blessed their ministry in very large ways.  We hope this episode will encourage you as you look toward future possibilities to invite your congregation to participation in church-wide ministry projects.You can find all of our episodes at thereformeddeacon.org. Make sure to follow us on your favorite podcast player, so you don't miss an episode. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for giveaways and more information. Find other resources on OPCCDM.org. Make sure to send us some feedback on your podcast player or by going to OPCCDM.org.

In this episode, Rev. Chris Cashen, pastor of Trinity Reformed OPC in Lanham, Maryland and member of the OPC Committee on Diaconal Ministries is joined by Rev. Charles R. Biggs, Regional Home Missionary for the Orthodox Presbyterian Church’s Presbytery of the Mid-Atlantic (PMA) and former pastor of Ketoctin Covenant Presbyterian Church in Purcellville, Virginia. Chris and Charles unpack a unique passage of Scripture, one that deacons are especially familiar with: Act 6 verses 1 to 8. We pray that in taking the time to look more in depth at passages like this is deacons would be strengthened in their understanding of and purpose for his office. Referenced in this episode:Presbytery Diaconal Summit VYou can find all of our episodes at thereformeddeacon.org. Make sure to follow us on your favorite podcast player, so you don't miss an episode. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for giveaways and more information. Find other resources on OPCCDM.org. Make sure to send us some feedback on your podcast player or by going to OPCCDM.org.

In this episode, David Nakhla visits Chris Verdick, the administrator of the OPC Uganda Mission's Akisyon A Yesu Presbyterian Clinic in Karamoja, Uganda. Chris and his family have been serving in rural Uganda for over a decade. Listen as Chris describes how the mission serves this impoverished region by attending to their health needs  while pursuing the ultimate goal of leading lost souls to Christ. The OPC Committee on Diaconal Ministries in conjunction with OPC Foreign Missions provides significant funding to aid with the operational costs of the Clinic as well as to missionary deacons who help with maintaining the Clinic building as part of the OPC Uganda Mission.Referenced in this episode:OPUM (OPC Uganda Mission) Website You can find all of our episodes at thereformeddeacon.org. Make sure to follow us on your favorite podcast player, so you don't miss an episode. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for giveaways and more information. Find other resources on OPCCDM.org. Make sure to send us some feedback on your podcast player or by going to OPCCDM.org.

You may remember our January 1 episode, where three deacons discuss practical methods for dealing with walk-in situations. This episode is a continuation of that conversation; same three deacons sit down with host David Nakhla: John Voss, Chris Sudlow and Doug Vos. David presents two new walk-in scenarios to the panel to tap into their years of diaconal experience on how to help. The panel grapples with one scenario of a woman who is homeless, but needs a specific amount of money and another of a young couple who show up to the church asking for help with their pregnancy situation. The panel is not of the same mind, and the discussion is interesting. Do you know what you would say or do when put on the spot like that? Participants: CDM Administrator, David Nakhla; and deacons John Voss from Covenant OPC in Orland Park, IL; Chris Sudlow from Bethel OPC in Wheaton, IL and Doug Vos from Oakland Hills OPC in Farmington Hills, MI.Referenced in this episode:AA Pregnancy Center in MichiganYou can find all of our episodes at thereformeddeacon.org. Make sure to follow us on your favorite podcast player, so you don't miss an episode. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for giveaways and more information. Find other resources on OPCCDM.org. Make sure to send us some feedback on your podcast player or by going to OPCCDM.org.