"And the King will answer them,
'Truly, I say to you, as you did it to one of the least of these my brothers, you did it to me'" (Matthew 25:40)
The deacons of Apple Valley Church thoughtfully plan and carry out our mercy
and relief ministries. As stated in our Book of Church Order, this ministry is a ministry of Christ himself:
"The Scriptures designate the office of deacon as distinct and perpetual in the church. Deacons
are called to show forth the compassion of Christ in a manifold ministry of mercy toward the saints and strangers on behalf
of the church. To this end they exercise, in the fellowship of the church, a recognized stewardship of care and of gifts for
those in need or distress."
Each Sunday we eat from the Lord's Table our deacons take up a special collection of 'alms' to relieve the needy believers
among us and needy strangers around us. It is our privilege to intentionally and actively show forth Christ's compassion through
our giving. Our deacons also call us to regular mercy ministry through local agencies such as Angel Tree, Help for the Homeless,
and Leaven, not to mention following the lead of Providence and caring for neighbors and co-workers.
Members of Apple Valley Church will continue to be taught and challenged
to see mercy ministry as the vital fruit of following the Lord Jesus Christ.
