The diaconate had a busy year until social distancing became the order of the day due to the COVID-19. We provided cookies and lemonade after the services and on some Sundays assisted Cress in greeting visitors after the service. The cookies and lemonade were always a big hit. The diaconate has two very strong committees: The Congregational Care Team and the Hospitality Committee.
The Congregational Care Team is made of members of the Diaconate and members of the congregation at large. The goal of the team is to strengthen the bonds of love, and support for members of our Church family. We realize that the needs of the congregation are constantly changing and try our best to reach out to those in a way that is helpful and encouraging. Sometimes we help when times are difficult and at other times we help celebrate the many joys along the way. Our team may assist in transportation, provide a meal, visit shut-ins or just be a friend to someone. We send encouraging notes and cards and reach out with telephone calls, an email or even a text. Most recently due to the Covid-19 virus the Care Team has reached out to many of our homebound Church members that may need help. We hope to develop new ways to increase the care and interactions of our church family this next year. We invite everyone in our church to participate in our Care Team activities.
The Hospitality Committee is composed of 8 members of the Diaconate. However, the duties are always supported by the entire team of Deacons, and often the congregation at large. We are responsible for bringing the congregation together for meals and activities. We also provide receptions in times of need, such as funerals and other special occasions.
Our year began September 2019 with a reception on Homecoming Sunday. In October we provided a feast of Italian foods in honor of Columbus Day. In November we hosted a Second Sunday lunch. A community Thanksgiving Service took place on November 26 with contributions from several churches. In December we had a Christmas reception with offerings provided by the congregation. In January we had a "Souper" Bowl lunch with a healthy variety of soups and salads. In February we hosted a retirement reception for our beloved Annie Ravenel. We also helped to Coordinate the Church Oyster Roast on February 29 and want to thank William Howe for picking up and steaming the Oysters for us and everyone else who pitched in and helped. In March we had a potluck lunch with assistance from the congregation.
The March potluck took place March 8. Since that event, we've been unable to come together for events due to the Coronavirus pandemic. Worship went to online services at the end of March. Our festive Seersucker Sunday lunch will not take place in May as a result. We officially adjourn for the months of June, July and August.
Everyone is eagerly awaiting a time when our Second Family can come together again.
Respectively submitted,
Erin Mellen - Chair of Diaconate
Debbie Smith - Chair - Congregational Care
Carol Howe - Co-Chair -Hospitality