These past few months have been exciting for the deacons. We took time to evaluate our own gifts. Many new opportunities for service were opened up and new ministries are beginning to form, as a result.

The Ricky Foss ministry team has provided support in the forms of rides to the doctor, prayer, and financial aid to a young man with Hodgkin's disease. They raised several thousand dollars to help with his expenses while he underwent a hone-marrow transplant.

The deacons have also become active in raising money to accomplish specific ministry. They sponsored an all-Church breakfast to raise money and purchase a new communion chalice and sponsored another event to help the Ricky Foss fund. These breakfasts have also been valuable in creating community among the deacons and fellowship within the congregation. In addition, T-shirts were sold depicting a service logo. The proceeds will benefit the deacons' relief fund. These new ministries have not detracted from their ongoing work of visitation and service to the Church.

At the same time, other members are moving towards an increased need of member care. New people are added to the deacon calling list on a regular basis. And we are open to any information of other members who need deacons.

In addition the Board of Deacons have served:

Activity Last Year This Year Communion 3,262 3,935 Flowers 260 235 Fellowship 4 7 Maternity 4 5 Food Cart 15 11 Calls/Visits 853 970 Thanksgiving Dinners Served 49 28 Van Ministers n/a 68

In our Adopt A Family project, we delivered presents to 8 families which consisted of 18 children.