Local diaconate

Each time, society has its own challenges in the social area around themes such as health care, distribution of resources, security, and when people live together. These are topics that are not hard to imagine from the public debate, while issues of concern.

Growing poverty in the Netherlands, there was noticeable tension between population and many people feel unsafe. And in the midst of the Dutch society, in every town and every village church communities are active. Communities that are inspired by colors and the gospel of Jesus - both communities and people who are in the midst of society. And amid this society they fulfill a social role in their imitation of Christ. That is what we mean by local diaconate.
"Diaconate was acting from churches and other gospel-inspired groups and movements aimed at the prevention, elimination, reduction, or it endure, especially in socio-cultural needs of individuals and groups of people and to create fair relationships. "
(Definition quoted: Hub Crijns, et al(Red), Mercy and Justice: Handbook Parish Science (Kampen: Cook, 2004).

Diaconate in the local community

Poverty and distress in Netherlands

Working with refugees

Equipment and organizations

Practical examples
Here we hope soon some examples of Municipalities Baptiste diaconate in place.Do you have stories from your church? Then let us know. Please contact the responsible Mission Sphere and Diaconate; Hans.riphagen @ baptisten.nl .