Celebrating 30 Years of United Methodist Deacons

As The United Methodist Church marks the 30th anniversary of the Order of Deacons, leaders and practitioners reflect on three decades of ministry dedicated to service, compassion, justice, and connection.

Deacons continue to serve as vital bridges between the church and the world, bringing faith into communities, workplaces, schools, and places of need while helping the church respond to God’s call in new and meaningful ways. Explore how the ministry of deacons has evolved and continues to shape the future of the church.

Rev. Dr. Margaret Ann Crain: A Life of Service as a Deacon

The Rev. Dr. Margaret Ann Crain helped define what it means to be a deacon, even before The United Methodist Church had the language. Crain, now among the first class of United Methodist deacons ordained following the 1996 General Conference, said her sense of call long predated the creation of the Order of Deacon.

Rev. Joaquin Garcia’s Ministry Rooted in Service

For the Rev. Joaquin Garcia, the call to ministry has never been about a title, position, or appointment. It has always been about responding to need. “Ministry is essentially a response to real needs,” Garcia said, adding a reminder from a former church leader, “There is enough need in the world to go around.”

Rev. Sharon Rubey (right) at her ordination as a deacon in 1997 after the 1996 General Conference vote creating the Order of Deacons. Photo courtesy of Rev. Sharon Rubey

Rev. Sharon Rubey’s Call to Connect and Serve

Standing in a crowded communion line as a college student, the Rev. Sharon Rubey encountered the moment that would shape her ministry, and her understanding of the role of a deacon. That brief exchange carried lasting meaning. “I knew at that time that… God was showing me what a life of service would be like.”

Rev. Dr. Wilson’s Global Music Ministry Bridges Cultures, Faith

The Rev. Dr. Cynthia Wilson remembers the moment she recognized her call — even as she tried to resist it. …“I’ve always understood my call to service, particularly as it relates to worship and music,” Wilson said.

Rev. Vicki Walker’s Journey from a Small Voice to a Big Impact

A singe moment would shape the rest of the Rev. Vicki Walker’s life. Walker, 19, sat alone in a quiet chapel and heard a voice she could not ignore. “‘I want you to go to seminary, get a master’s in Christian education, and work with youth.’”

Jacob Penvose Bridges Faith and Mental Health as a Deacon

“What inspired me to become a deacon is to be able to share the love of God with individuals who may not ever enter the church,” says the Rev. Jacob Penvose, a deacon in the Western Pennsylvania Annual Conference.

Hear From More Deacons

Explore additional stories of service, leadership and connection through video reflections from United Methodist deacons across the denomination.

The Rev. Anita Wood

Ministry Area: Education & Faith Formation

Using her experience as an educator, the Rev. Anita Wood has helped others grow in faith through teaching, mentoring and relationship-building. Her story highlights the many ways deacons use their skills and callings to serve beyond the walls of the church.