What did you think? Text us by clicking here! We are unable to reply on this app, so include phone # or email address.

In this episode, host David Nakhla is joined by OPC member and dementia care advocate Lizette Cloete to explore how deacons and their churches can better care for congregants and families affected by dementia. Lizette explains what dementia is, how it differs from Alzheimer's disease, and why many worldly approaches to dementia care can be misguided. Drawing from both personal and professional experience and a biblical worldview, she challenges churches to see those living with dementia not primarily through the lens of loss, but as image bearers of God who retain their value and place within the covenant community.

Lizette focuses especially on the role that deacons and churches can play in supporting both dementia sufferers and their caregivers. She offers a few proactive care strategies to help the church; from respite care to meal support, transportation, and companionship, helping families remain connected to worship. As the number of families affected by dementia continues to grow, churches and deacons have a unique opportunity to demonstrate Christ's care through intentional mercy ministry.

Referenced in this episode:

• thinkdifferentdementia.com
• Email Lizette Cloete (for advice, encouragement and speaking engagements)
• Dementia Caregivers Support for Christians podcast
• Dementia: Living in the Memories of God by John Swinton
• Blame It on the Brain by Edward T. Welch

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.

What did you think? Text us by clicking here! We are unable to reply on this app, so include phone # or email address.

In this episode, host Tim Hopper is joined by seasoned deacon McRay Simmons to reflect on what it means to grow in maturity and perseverance in diaconal ministry. Drawing on more than two decades of experience, McRay emphasizes spiritual growth shaped by the Holy Spirit’s work through years of service. The conversation highlights common challenges deacons face—discouragement, overwhelming workloads, and the temptation to rely on their own strength rather than the Lord. A central theme throughout the episode is the need for intentional dependence on God through prayer, as McRay candidly reflects on his own struggle with a “do-first” mindset and the ongoing call to repentance and humility in service.

The episode also underscores the importance of fellowship, communication, and mutual encouragement among deacons, especially in difficult seasons or contexts where resources may be limited. McRay shares how relationships with fellow deacons, elders, and his own family have sustained him, and offers practical encouragement in delegation, caring for one’s household, and maintaining spiritual health while serving others. This episode underscores the reality that diaconal ministry requires perseverance, prayer, and a continual reliance on the Lord, who sustains His servants as they press on in their calling.

Referenced in this episode:

• The OPC Deacon Check-In program
• The Reformed Deacon podcast
• The 2026 National Diaconal Summit (now at capacity, but a waitlist is in place)

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.

What did you think? Text us by clicking here! We are unable to reply on this app, so include phone # or email address.

In this episode of The Reformed Deacon, host Tim Hopper is joined by Jared Grigg, deacon at Acacia Reformed Church in Manassas, Virginia; Ray Pellerin, deacon at Merrimack Valley OPC in North Andover, Massachusetts; and Lynne Hunter, deacon at Harvest OPC in Wyoming, Michigan, for another “real-world cases” discussion. Together, they address common but often challenging situations in diaconal ministry, including chronic shortfalls in giving, the balance between financial assistance and personal responsibility, and how to care wisely for individuals and families in need without fostering dependency.

The conversation also explores how to navigate disagreements within a diaconate, how to support young couples facing financial strain, and how to respond when needs arise within a pastor’s own family. Throughout, the discussion highlights the importance of humility, mutual submission, and thoughtful, gospel-centered care.

This episode provides practical insight and encouragement for deacons seeking to serve their congregations with both compassion and discernment.

Referenced in this episode:

• https://www.healthcare.gov/
• Lynne Hunter's email address (for Dave Ramsey information): lfhunter1@gmail.com
• Dave Ramsey Financial Peace University

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.