The Fundamental Work of the Deacons (7): Caring for the Believing Poor Outside the Congregation

Within their own congregation, deacons must manifest Christ's mercy by doing their utmost to care for the poor. This means they must collect alms, determine the need of those who seek benevolent help, distribute the alms as the need of the poor requires, and visit and comfort the poor with God's Word. This work involves more than that the deacons are willing and ready to help any who ask -- it requires also that they be alert for signs that some in the congregation might be in need. However,...