New DVD highlights deaconess ministry

Raising awareness about the importance of the deaconess ministry is the goal of a new DVD from LCMS World Relief/Human Care.

“In Service to Our Lord: A Presentation of the Deaconess Ministry” highlights the role of women who are called to serve the church to provide diakonal care, including works of mercy, spiritual care and teaching the faith. Kristin Wassilak, former director of the deaconess program at Concordia University Chicago, hosts the 25-minute DVD; LCMS President Gerald Kieschnick provides the introduction.

Also included are interviews with deaconesses and information about the three LCMS-certified deaconess programs. (Programs also are offered at the two LCMS seminaries.)

“We are convinced that following the apostolic mandate of a male-only pastorate also requires affirming and saying ‘yes’ to the God-pleasing service of women in the church,” said Rev. Matthew Harrison, LCMS World Relief/Human Care executive director.

“It is also vital from our perspective that theologically trained women are deeply involved in the church’s work of mercy at every level, in the name of Christ and His Gospel.”

A single copy of the DVD is free; for multiple copies, a donation is appreciated. To order, call LCMS World Relief/Human Care at (800) 248-1930, Ext. 1380, or send an e-mail message to grace.rao@lcms.org.

Posted Feb. 5, 2007