Wednesday, October 22, 2025

Musings at St. Andrew's

Rev. Wendy Paterson | Pastoral Care Coordinator

As the Pastoral Care Coordinator at St Andrew's, let me bring you up to date on the deacons.

For those of you new to the church and those who have forgotten, the deacons are a group of eighteen volunteers who connect on a regular basis with people from the congregation. Most of our deacons connect by phone, a few by visiting, and three by sending emails. The frequency of the connections is determined by the deacon and the church member together. Some people want to hear from their deacon once or twice a year while others prefer monthly contact.

Over the years, meaningful friendships have developed. For some, the deacon is their main connection with the church. Deacons often relay information to me when a minister is requested or special needs arise. Deacons are NOT meant to be counselors or people who keep you up-to-date on everything that is happening at St. Andrew's. That happens through the Musings and weekly e-blasts. Instead they are good listeners and caring friends, sharing the love of God as they connect with other people from their church.

There are three specific points I want to share with you today:

 1. Several of our deacons have retired over the past months. If you have not heard from your deacon recently and still wish to have one, please give me a call (519-584-2532). Please be sure to leave your name and number. I work from home so call me directly, not the church.

2. If you have never had a deacon but you would like to try one out again, please call me and let me know. I will do my best to connect you with one. There are no obligations if you find you would rather not continue.

3. If you think you might like to BECOME a deacon, please get in touch with me. We are always in need of people to serve in this important ministry at St.Andrew's. We can discuss the role and what is expected. I know there are many wonderful people in the congregation who would make excellent deacons with God's guidance and support.

May God bless us all as we use the gifts with which we have been blessed as we love and serve one another.

Rev. Wendy Paterson, Pastoral Care Coordinator