A residential school as a community of formation for deacons in the Anglican Church Tikanga Pakeha.
The concept of the residential school, developed in the Diocese of Christchurch, offers a week annually when deacons and deacons in training live together, pray together, learn together and learn from one another. This is a place where the disciplines of spiritual growth are encouraged - a discipline of prayer and study of the Scriptures and times of theological reflection with others.
This is a place where some fundamental skills such as liturgical roles are taught. It is a place where the history of the diaconate, deacons and deaconesses who have gone before us, is celebrated; an intensive experience of the diaconal community.
The School does not provide the general biblical, theological and pastoral formation required by ordinands; it is expected that the various means currently used for deacons will remain foundational. Thus, the residential school is an addition to other diocesan training; it is expected that all who attend the school will have been accepted for training by the diocese and given some financial support to attend.
Deacons’ School runs on a three-year cycle and consists of a week’s live in each year. A participant can start the programme in any year.
It is hoped that school will be a major boost to the renewal and development of the diaconate at this time; effective confident deacons seen ‘at work’ are the most effective ways of making known this aspect of the Church’s ministry and encouraging diaconal ministry throughout faith communities.
Learning Objectives:
- formation in responding to ministry and mission in the world as a deacon
- the practice of theological reflection with a diaconal perspective
- formation in prayer and spiritual life upon which to base diaconal ministry
- skills training and learning opportunities in areas particularly relevant to deacons.
Instruction methods.
- Some pre-reading and written work is required.
- A combination of interactive and reflection based learning and tutorial.
- Some field experience and observation of diaconal ministry projects is an important part of the week.
- The overall direction of the School, input and tutorials is provided by people who are suitably qualified.
Assessment criteria and accountability.
- Participants are required to complete comprehensive self-assessment as part of their work, and a report on attendance made.
- Participants are also asked to evaluate the school on content, presentation and value and the results of this evaluation is reported to appropriate diocesan bodies.
IN 2020 THE NATIONAL SCHOOL WAS CANCELLED DUE TO THE COVID 19 PANDEMIC.
In this time of uncertainty, no plans are being made for 2021 either. Check back here later in the year for 2022.
