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In this episode, David Nakhla is joined by seasoned deacons John Stahl (Emmanuel OPC, Wilmington, DE), Jared Grigg (Acacia Reformed OPC, Manassas, VA), and Dan Barnes (Trinity Reformed OPC, Lanham, MD) for a conversation on the unique challenges faced by solo deacons in their ministries.

The work of a deacon is vital to the life of the church. Deacons demonstrate Christ’s mercy by caring for the physical needs of the congregation. By providing aid to the poor, caring for the needs of the sick, supporting widows, and tending to those in hardship, deacons are at the heart of mercy ministry. The institution of the office in Acts 6, where the apostles instructed the church to appoint seven men, shows the biblical principle of plurality in this work.

Yet, in some small congregations, a plurality of deacons is not always possible. How does a deacon function when he serves alone? Listen as these men share practical wisdom managing expectations, leaning on the gifts of fellow church members, and faithfully carrying out mercy ministry in the strength God provides.

Referenced in this episode:

The Deacon Check-In program

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 ask a diaconal question by going to OPCCDM.org.

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In this episode, host, deacon Tim Hopper (Shiloh OPC, Raleigh, NC) is joined by Becky Haney, a member of New Hope OPC in Bridgeton, New Jersey, to share her experience following the sudden passing of her husband Dave Haney—a man well-known and loved by many in the OPC—who died unexpectedly at age 56 in 2019.

Caring for widows lies close to the heart of diaconal work. Scripture is clear that God’s people are to support widows in their time of need. Yet many struggle to know how best to minister to them in their new chapter of life. This important conversation hopes to equip deacons and other church members to care more effectively by listening well, being patient and allowing a "wide berth" following this life-altering experience.

Becky's openness offers valuable insight and practical wisdom to help deacons, pastors, and church members care for widows with greater empathy and understanding.

Referenced in this episode:

• If I Should Die (produced by David Haney)
• What Grieving People Wish You Knew about What Really Helps (and What Really Hurts): (And How to Avoid Being That Person Who Hurts Instead of Helps) by Nancy Guthrie
• How Deacons Can Help: A Widow’s Advice
• Becky's Suggested Reading List

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 ask a diaconal question by going to OPCCDM.org.

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In this episode, David Nakhla speaks with Dr. Jim Berry, an elder at Reformation OPC in Morgantown, West Virginia, and Professor and Chair of the Department of Behavioral Medicine and Psychiatry at WVU’s Rockefeller Neuroscience Institute. He’s joined by Mr. Rob Guss, an elder at Calvary OPC in Glenside, Pennsylvania, who shares his powerful testimony of God’s grace in delivering him from addiction.

Addiction brings with it deep brokenness. It can consume a family’s resources and, when discovered, often brings added pressure to the household—resulting in broken relationships, sadness, confusion, and other diaconal needs.

This conversation hopes to equip deacons to better understand how to walk alongside those caught in addiction—emphasizing the importance of presence, listening, and long-term counsel. A practical case study at the end offers a real-world scenario, guiding deacons through how to respond when someone confesses a struggle with addiction. The episode reminds listeners that while the path may be long and difficult, deacons are privileged to come alongside those suffering with lasting hope through the love of Christ.

Referenced in this episode:

Flesh and Thorn: Understanding Addiction as Disease Dr. James Berry; Ordained Servant June-July 2018

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 ask a diaconal question by going to OPCCDM.org.