Instructions: Understanding that churches have different models, cultures and polity there are some fairly universal standards used to determine the effectiveness of deacon ministry in a local congregation. This tool is designed to be given to the deacon body, deacon families/groupings and the congregation.  I would suggest that each evaluating group be calculated separately and compared.  Often  there is a major discrepancy between the groups and that gives clarity about challenges, conflicts and possible next steps.

Person completing this survey: (mark only one)

• Deacon   
• Family/Group Deacon is assigned to serve  
• Congregation  Member without an assigned deacon or knowledge of such an assignment
• Congregation Guest/Attendee

Effectiveness Indicators: (mark all that apply)

Awareness:

• I have a clear understanding of the model/plan of deacon ministry our church follows now .  Model Description: _______________________________________
• I have some meaningful contact with a deacon (or my assigned families) at least 3 times a year (my deacon would be appropriate if your church assigns groups of persons to a deacon)
• Our deacon ministry effectiveness is: (use this scale and place an X to represent your evaluation)

      Ineffective_______________Average ___________Effective___________GREAT

Servanthood:

• Our deacons are consistent in modeling servanthood among our congregation
• Our deacons spearhead ministry/mission projects as a role model for our congregation
• Our deacons give evidence of a consistent and effective prayerlife
• Our deacons are seen as spiritual leaders in our church and community

Function of Service:

• Deacon meetings are excited about their function of service in the church
• Deacon meetings are fruitful in moving the church forward in ministry and mission
• Deacon ministry has scriptural mandates for deacon ministry as it's model
• Deacon ministry is designed and loyal to traditional role of deacons more than biblical guidelines
• Deacons are the clearinghouse for most church decisions
• Deacons are informed about decisions made by other committees/teams that are empowered by the church to carry out administrative/maintenance related issues
• Deacons are effective in care-giving and service to membership
• Deacons are effective in ministry in the community

My Suggestion(s) to Improve Deacon Ministry includes: (mark all that apply)

• Improve number of meaningful contacts between deacon(s) and congregation
• Give deacons higher visibility in worship and communication
• Included unordained members of the congregation in service ministries
• Empower church committees/teams to deal with administrative issues (i.e. budget, staffing, maintenance of facilities etc.)
• Share stories in worship about the influence and impact of deacon ministry on our church and community
• Inform the congregation prior to nomination/election time about:
• Biblical Foundation of Deacon Ministry
• Ministry Model Being Used at the Time
• Biographical information about deacon and their family members
• Other________________________________________________________________

      _____________________________________________________________________