Exemplars

Who Do Deacons Need to Be? What Do Deacons Need to Know? What Do Deacons Need to Do? These three questions form the basis for Exemplars: Deacons as Servant and Spiritual Leaders. They are designed to encourage robust conversation within diaconates as well as between deacons, clergy, and other laity. All of us grow spiritually as we listen and speak to one another with open minds and loving hearts. For deacons to reach their full potential as spiritual leaders, thoughtful and prayerful conversation must happen.

This workbook was born from years of pastoral experience and a growing conviction that congregational renewal must include lay renewal. Nearly every Baptist church has a diaconate, so it seems reasonable that if lay renewal is to happen, it must include deacon renewal. Exemplars can be helpful as a study guide for an individual deacon or in a small group or retreat setting where deacons study together, hold one another accountable, and offer support for one another as they seek to be exemplars of Christ and servants of Christ’s church.