1997 Annual Conference Statement The Church of the Brethren throughout most of its history has affirmed the ministry of deacons as central to the life and mission of the church, especially in the congregation. During the middle decades of the twentieth century, the church struggled with finding a place for deacon ministries in the changing structures of congregational organization. This resulted in the downplaying of deacon ministry in many congregations. In 1983 a major Annual Conference study focused on deacon ministry, leading to a revitalization of the ministry in many congregations. The church now sees deacons as an integral part of its ministry to the personal needs of those whom the congregation serves. Deacons have a significant role in building up and maintaining the focus and unity of the congregation as the Body of Christ.
