Podcast
The Reformed Deacon
Hosted by a Podcast from the OPC Committee on Diaconal Ministries · EN
The Reformed Deacon is an interview and discussion podcast created by the Orthodox Presbyterian Church Committee on Diaconal Ministries. The Reformed Deacon exists to strengthen and encourage the brotherhood of reformed deacons in their God-given role of serving the local church. We hope you'll find this podcast to be helpful to you as you serve the Lord in your church. For more information about the OPC Committee on Diaconal Ministries, go to our website: OPCCDM.org. Contact us: mail@thereformeddeacon.org.
22episodes
Episodes
Newest firstAll episodes
Helping Those Affected by Dementia
2d ago01:09:05Tap to summarizeWhat did you think? Text us by clicking here! We are unable to reply on this app, so include phone # or email address.In this episode, host David Nakhla is joined by OPC member and dementia care advocate Lizette Cloete to explore how deacons and their churches can better care for congregants and families affected by dementia. Lizette explains what dementia is, how it differs from Alzheimer's disease, and why many worldly approaches to dementia care can be misguided. Drawing from both personal and professional experience and a biblical worldview, she challenges churches to see those living with dementia not primarily through the lens of loss, but as image bearers of God who retain their value and place within the covenant community.Lizette focuses especially on the role that deacons and churches can play in supporting both dementia sufferers and their caregivers. She offers a few proactive care strategies to help the church; from respite care to meal support, transportation, and companionship, helping families remain connected to worship. As the number of families affected by dementia continues to grow, churches and deacons have a unique opportunity to demonstrate Christ's care through intentional mercy ministry.Referenced in this episode:thinkdifferentdementia.comEmail Lizette Cloete (for advice, encouragement and speaking engagements)Dementia Caregivers Support for Christians podcastDementia: Living in the Memories of God by John SwintonBlame It on the Brain by Edward T. WelchYou can find all of our episodes at thereformeddeacon.org. Make sure to follow us on your favorite podcast player, so you don't miss an episode. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for giveaways and more information. Find other resources on OPCCDM.org. Make sure to send us some feedback on your podcast player or ask a diaconal question by going to OPCCDM.org.
Transcribe →Maturing in Diaconal Service
May 100:37:12Tap to summarizeWhat did you think? Text us by clicking here! We are unable to reply on this app, so include phone # or email address.In this episode, host Tim Hopper is joined by seasoned deacon McRay Simmons to reflect on what it means to grow in maturity and perseverance in diaconal ministry. Drawing on more than two decades of experience, McRay emphasizes spiritual growth shaped by the Holy Spirit’s work through years of service. The conversation highlights common challenges deacons face—discouragement, overwhelming workloads, and the temptation to rely on their own strength rather than the Lord. A central theme throughout the episode is the need for intentional dependence on God through prayer, as McRay candidly reflects on his own struggle with a “do-first” mindset and the ongoing call to repentance and humility in service. The episode also underscores the importance of fellowship, communication, and mutual encouragement among deacons, especially in difficult seasons or contexts where resources may be limited. McRay shares how relationships with fellow deacons, elders, and his own family have sustained him, and offers practical encouragement in delegation, caring for one’s household, and maintaining spiritual health while serving others. This episode underscores the reality that diaconal ministry requires perseverance, prayer, and a continual reliance on the Lord, who sustains His servants as they press on in their calling. Referenced in this episode:The OPC Deacon Check-In programThe Reformed Deacon podcastThe 2026 National Diaconal Summit (now at capacity, but a waitlist is in place)You can find all of our episodes at thereformeddeacon.org. Make sure to follow us on your favorite podcast player, so you don't miss an episode. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for giveaways and more information. Find other resources on OPCCDM.org. Make sure to send us some feedback on your podcast player or ask a diaconal question by going to OPCCDM.org.
Transcribe →Real World Cases: Financial Discernment
Apr 1400:39:38Tap to summarizeWhat did you think? Text us by clicking here! We are unable to reply on this app, so include phone # or email address.In this episode of The Reformed Deacon, host Tim Hopper is joined by Jared Grigg, deacon at Acacia Reformed Church in Manassas, Virginia; Ray Pellerin, deacon at Merrimack Valley OPC in North Andover, Massachusetts; and Lynne Hunter, deacon at Harvest OPC in Wyoming, Michigan, for another “real-world cases” discussion. Together, they address common but often challenging situations in diaconal ministry, including chronic shortfalls in giving, the balance between financial assistance and personal responsibility, and how to care wisely for individuals and families in need without fostering dependency.The conversation also explores how to navigate disagreements within a diaconate, how to support young couples facing financial strain, and how to respond when needs arise within a pastor’s own family. Throughout, the discussion highlights the importance of humility, mutual submission, and thoughtful, gospel-centered care.This episode provides practical insight and encouragement for deacons seeking to serve their congregations with both compassion and discernment. Referenced in this episode:https://www.healthcare.gov/Lynne Hunter's email address (for Dave Ramsey information): lfhunter1@gmail.com Dave Ramsey Financial Peace UniversityYou can find all of our episodes at thereformeddeacon.org. Make sure to follow us on your favorite podcast player, so you don't miss an episode. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for giveaways and more information. Find other resources on OPCCDM.org. Make sure to send us some feedback on your podcast player or ask a diaconal question by going to OPCCDM.org.
Transcribe →Walking Alongside Special Needs Families
Apr 100:46:06Tap to summarizeWhat did you think? Text us by clicking here! We are unable to reply on this app, so include phone # or email address.In this episode, host Adrian Crum is joined by Mike and Naomi Schout, whose perspective on special needs was shaped by Mike’s brother, Stephen, who lived with an uncontrolled seizure disorder; Eddie and Hillary Mercado, whose eleven-year-old son Calvin is non-speaking autistic; and Nicki Gotch, whose son is on the autism spectrum and whose experience led her to serve as a teacher in the “Wonderfully Made” Sunday school class at Harvest OPC in Wyoming, Michigan. This episode pairs with the April 2026 issue of New Horizons, featuring the article “Special Needs Families in the Life of Christ’s Church” by Rev. Adrian Crum. Be sure to check it out.Referenced in this episode (full list):Books:A Place of Healing: Wrestling with the Mysteries of Suffering, Pain, and God's Sovereignty by Joni Eareckson TadaSame Lake Different Boat: Coming Alongside People Touched by Disability by Stephanie O. HubachIt Has Not Yet Appeared What We Shall Be: A Reconsideration of the Imago Dei in Light of Those with Severe Cognitive Disabilities by George Hammond (Reformed Academic Dissertation)Accessible Church: A Gospel-Centered Vision for Including People with Disabilities and Their Families by Sandra Peoples The Life We Never Expected: Hopeful Reflections on the Challenges of Parenting Children with Special Needs by Andrew Wilson, Rachel Wilson, Russell MooreOther:Harvest OPC From the Pastor's Desk: Disability in the Church - “To and With” MinistryAccessible Church Website: https://www.accessible-church.comMake Room at Church for Special-Needs Families by Sandra PeoplesYou can find all of our episodes at thereformeddeacon.org. Make sure to follow us on your favorite podcast player, so you don't miss an episode. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for giveaways and more information. Find other resources on OPCCDM.org. Make sure to send us some feedback on your podcast player or ask a diaconal question by going to OPCCDM.org.
Transcribe →Why the Summit Matters
Mar 2400:37:01Tap to summarizeWhat did you think? Text us by clicking here! We are unable to reply on this app, so include phone # or email address.In this episode, host David Nakhla asks seasoned deacons Ray Pellerin from Merrimack Valley OPC in North Andover, Massachusetts and Len Richards from New Life OPC in Williamsport, Pennsylvania to discuss their experience and excitement about the National Diaconal Summits. Each have been to multiple Summits since their inception in 2010. Listen as these men reminisce about their favorite moments as well as some clips of the talks and the singing. Referenced in this episode:NDS Summit VideosNDS Summit Podcast AudioYou can find all of our episodes at thereformeddeacon.org. Make sure to follow us on your favorite podcast player, so you don't miss an episode. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for giveaways and more information. Find other resources on OPCCDM.org. Make sure to send us some feedback on your podcast player or ask a diaconal question by going to OPCCDM.org.
Transcribe →Helping Those Burdened with End of Life Decisions
Mar 100:56:45Tap to summarizeWhat did you think? Text us by clicking here! We are unable to reply on this app, so include phone # or email address.In this episode of The Reformed Deacon, Rev. Adrian Crum (Harvest OPC, Wyoming, MI) speaks with Dr. David VanDrunen, professor at Westminster Seminary California and author of Bioethics and the Christian Life: A Guide to Making Difficult Decisions, and Tracey Huyck (Grace Fellowship OPC, Zeeland, MI), a nurse with many years of experience working with the aged and dying, about how deacons and congregants can minister wisely and compassionately to those facing end-of-life decisions.Referenced in this episode:Bioethics and The Christian Life: A Guide to Making Difficult Decisions by Dr. David VanDrunenBetween Life and Death: A Gospel-Centered Guide to End-of-Life Medical Care by Kathryn ButlerGospel Coalition Articles by Kathryn ButlerWhen Breath Becomes Air by Paul and Lucy KalanithiDeparting in Peace: Biblical Decision-Making at the End of Life by William Clifford DavisBioethics: A Primer for Christians by Gilbert MeilaenderHard Choices for Loving People: CPR, Feeding Tubes, Palliative Care, Comfort Measures, and the Patient with a Serious Illness by Rev. Hank DunnYou can find all of our episodes at thereformeddeacon.org. Make sure to follow us on your favorite podcast player, so you don't miss an episode. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for giveaways and more information. Find other resources on OPCCDM.org. Make sure to send us some feedback on your podcast player or ask a diaconal question by going to OPCCDM.org.
Transcribe →Mercy Ministry with Confidence in Jesus
Feb 100:39:24Tap to summarizeWhat did you think? Text us by clicking here! We are unable to reply on this app, so include phone # or email address.In this episode of The Reformed Deacon, Rev. Chris Cashen discusses with Rev. Peter VanDoodewaard (Covenant OPC, Taylors, South Carolina) about where a deacon’s confidence should come from as he seeks to show the compassion of Christ in mercy ministry. Using John 6 and the feeding of the 5,000, they explore how Jesus intentionally tested His disciples—not because He lacked a plan, but because He wanted them to learn to trust His power and provision. The lesson is not self-confidence, but deep confidence in Christ, who sees the needs of His people, has already purposed to meet them, and graciously invites His servants to participate in distributing what He supplies.The conversation emphasizes that fear, feelings of inadequacy, and even unbelief in Christ's ability are common temptations in mercy ministry. Deacons are reminded that they are not the source of provision—they are the “basket carriers.” As they serve, they not only meet physical needs but also have opportunity to point people to Christ.Referenced in this episode:OPC National Diaconal Summit 2026—June 25-27, 2026Primary passage:John 6:1–14 — The feeding of the 5,000 (central text)Key biblical references mentioned or clearly alluded to1 Timothy 3:13 — Deacons gaining “great boldness in the faith”John 2:1–11 — Water into wine; seeing Christ’s glory in His signsJohn 1:1–14 — The Word made flesh; glory of the only begottenJohn 6 (later section) — “I am the Bread of Life”Colossians 1:29 — “Christ labors with all His energy”Acts 4 — Boldness of Peter and JohnExodus 14 — Moses at the Red Sea: “Stand still and see the salvation of the Lord”Confessional / church order referenceOPC Book of Church Order — Description of the deacon’s role: “to show forth the compassion of Christ…”Practical OPC referenceOPCCDM.orgOPC Presbytery Diaconal CommitteesDavid Nakhla, Administrator, OPC Committee on Diaconal Ministries You can find all of our episodes at thereformeddeacon.org. Make sure to follow us on your favorite podcast player, so you don't miss an episode. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for giveaways and more information. Find other resources on OPCCDM.org. Make sure to send us some feedback on your podcast player or ask a diaconal question by going to OPCCDM.org.
Transcribe →Helping Seniors Avoid Scams
Jan 100:47:46Tap to summarizeWhat did you think? Text us by clicking here! We are unable to reply on this app, so include phone # or email address.Scammers have grown increasingly sophisticated, and their schemes can target anyone, whether a ninety-two-year-old widow or someone with a PhD. After a scam, victims are often left confused and unsure of what to do next. How should someone respond when they realize they’ve been scammed? And what role should the church, specifically deacons, play in helping those affected?In this episode of The Reformed Deacon, Tim Hopper, a deacon at Shiloh Presbyterian Church in North Carolina, speaks with Jon McCann, a seasoned police officer with expertise in financial crimes, and Evan Strickland, a cybersecurity professional with nearly twenty years of experience.Listen in as they discuss common scams, practical steps for prevention, and how the church can care wisely and compassionately for those who have fallen victim.Referenced in this episode:Visa Freud Report: https://www.visaacceptance.com/en-us/insights/fraud-report.htmlFBI Holiday Scam Reminders: https://www.fbi.gov/how-we-can-help-you/scams-and-safety/common-frauds-and-scams/holiday-scamsFree site free website to check whether an email address has appeared in known data breaches: https://haveibeenpwned.com/ You can find all of our episodes at thereformeddeacon.org. Make sure to follow us on your favorite podcast player, so you don't miss an episode. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for giveaways and more information. Find other resources on OPCCDM.org. Make sure to send us some feedback on your podcast player or ask a diaconal question by going to OPCCDM.org.
Transcribe →The Importance of Having Deacons
Dec 100:55:11Tap to summarizeWhat did you think? Text us by clicking here! We are unable to reply on this app, so include phone # or email address.In this episode, David Nakhla welcomes Pastor Mark Winder of Wolf River OPC in Collierville, TN, for a compelling conversation about the vital role of deacons in the life of the church.It's not uncommon for church plants to go several years without deacons, often due to the challenges of identifying, training, and overseeing qualified men during the early stages of organization. Pastor Mark shares how installing deacons brought transformative change to his congregation—and why this often-overlooked office is essential to a healthy church.Reflecting on the biblical call to service, Pastor Mark reminds us: “The church is not a theology club. We are a church that serves.”We hope you find this to be an encouraging and insightful discussion on the ministry of mercy, and discover why the work of deacons is central to the mission and fellowship of the church.Referenced in this episode:OPC Book of Church OrderOPCCDM.orgTraining Videos (from the NDS IV 2022 National Diaconal Summit)"Diaconal Leadership Today" Bill Shishko“The Deacon and his Congregation” Craig Troxel "Mercy Ministry in a Social Justice World" Eric Watkins"Ministry to the Spiritually Immature" Seth Long"Doing Business as Deacons” by Chris SudlowSample Deacon Meeting Agenda (Wolf River OPC)Diaconal Training Syllabus (Wolf River OPC)Scripture· Ephesians 4:7, 11-13, 16· Hebrews 6:10· Acts 2:42· Acts 6:1-6· Acts 8:5-8· I Peter 4:10· Hebrews 10:24You can find all of our episodes at thereformeddeacon.org. Make sure to follow us on your favorite podcast player, so you don't miss an episode. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for giveaways and more information. Find other resources on OPCCDM.org. Make sure to send us some feedback on your podcast player or ask a diaconal question by going to OPCCDM.org.
Transcribe →Short-Term Missionary Needed
Nov 100:30:15Tap to summarizeWhat did you think? Text us by clicking here! We are unable to reply on this app, so include phone # or email address.OPC Foreign Missions is looking for a short-term missionary to attend to diaconal needs in Uganda! The OPC Uganda Mission in Karamoja is in need of a facilities manager to fill a short-term need while current missionary Travis Emmett and his family are in the States for medical leave early next year. Please consider how you may be able to help!In this episode of The Reformed Deacon, host David Nakhla speaks with Douglas Clawson, General Secretary of the OPC’s Committee on Foreign Missions, and Travis Emmett, who serves as the current mission’s facilities manager. Together, they explain what it means to serve as a short-term missionary focused on diaconal work, the importance of the role in supporting gospel ministry, and what life and service look like in Karamoja.Travis shares both the joys and challenges of maintaining mission facilities in a remote part of Africa. Those with general handyman skills—and a heart to serve Christ’s church—are encouraged to prayerfully consider whether they might step in to help during this season of need. You don’t need to be an expert tradesman—just willing to work hard and serve faithfully.Please pray that this need is filled quickly and for all who labor for the Lord in Uganda.If you are interested in hearing more about this opportunity, please reach out to OPC CFM General Secretary, Douglas Clawson: Douglas.clawson@opc.org.You can find all of our episodes at thereformeddeacon.org. Make sure to follow us on your favorite podcast player, so you don't miss an episode. Follow us on Facebook and Instagram for giveaways and more information. Find other resources on OPCCDM.org. Make sure to send us some feedback on your podcast player or ask a diaconal question by going to OPCCDM.org.
Transcribe →