Need care?
Let us know.
If you have a prayer request or a specific need, we'd love to come alongside you.
If you have a prayer request or a specific need, we'd love to come alongside you.
Request Prayer
We believe that prayer is a foundation of the Christian life. If you are needing prayer for anything at all, let us know. All requests are kept confidential and will be seen by our prayer team.
Diaconate Help
Our Diaconate Committee and Fund is available to help those with urgent practical needs and difficult life circumstances. If you're in need of care, continue reading to learn about how we can serve you.
We seek to be a church that not only feeds our congregation spiritually, but meets the practical needs of our people and the city.
Contact the Committee
If you have an urgent or immediate need, we want to help. Get in touch with our committee to discuss next steps.
What We Do
Diaconate Key Pillars
1
Practically assist and encourage those in challenging circumstances
This may include helping with budgeting, coordinating a meal delivery schedule, or connecting to resources in the community.
2
Offer financial assistance through the Diaconate Fund
Through the donations of our church body, we are able to use this dedicated fund to provide temporary financial support to those in extenuating circumstances.
3
Offer prayer and counsel after Sunday services
We are always available to pray with you, both after our Sunday services and during the week, in partnership with the Grace Toronto Prayer Ministry.
4
Empower congregants to care for and meet each other’s needs
Congregants can help through various avenues such as Gracifieds (our online “classifieds” group), the CAP budgeting course, and more.
Our Purpose
The Diaconate is a group of men and women who are nominated, trained, elected and appointed by Grace Toronto elders and members. We exist to contribute to the flourishing of gospel-centred community by meeting the practical needs of our church community, and extending help and compassion to those experiencing hardship or difficult circumstances.
Unlike elders, who are responsible for teaching the gospel, administering healing prayer, and overseeing the church, the Diaconate focuses on deed ministry. People have different needs - they may be recovering from illness, unemployed, grieving, or in another circumstance where they welcome a ministry of care from our congregation. We express in practical ways Christ’s command to all believers to love our neighbour as ourselves.
The practical assistance we offer is temporary and short-term in nature, with the goal of alleviating hardship caused by immediate circumstances and connecting an applicant to the Grace community. The Diaconate is funded entirely by the donations of individuals at Grace Toronto Church. We are, therefore, accountable to the congregation to be wise stewards of the resources God has given us through His people.
Frequently Asked
How can I request financial aid?
Complete this form to make a request for financial assistance through the Diaconate Fund. Once the form is completed, two members of the Diaconate will be assigned to your case. Your identity will only be shared with these individuals.
The Diaconate members will reach out to you to coordinate an in-person meeting to discuss your needs and how the Diaconate can support you. This may be in financial, non-financial ways and/or through prayer. Together, you will create a short-term Support Plan, as well as explore resources for longer-term support.
For accountability and support, the Diaconate members assigned to you will share your Support Plan, anonymously, with the rest of the Diaconate, who may offer additional suggestions.
Your plan will then be confirmed with you and the Diaconate members assigned to you will check in regularly based on your Support Plan and needs. You may reach out to them at any time. As your needs are alleviated and you no longer require support from the Diaconate, your case will be closed.
What kinds of requests have been made?
Help moving or putting together furniture
Meals after an injury, loss, or childbirth
Getting rides to/from church
Assisting with groceries
Support for budgeting skills
Counselling support
Help for finding a job
How can I join the meal ministry?
We are always looking for volunteers around the city who are able to provide meals for congregants in need. To join the meal ministry, email diaconate@gracetoronto.ca
What kind of help can be provided?
Connect you to other members in our community who can help in practical ways, such as Gracifieds (an online Grace Toronto “classifieds” group)
Be a resource for you as you care for others
Financial assistance for basic living expenses (rent, food, utilities, medical, etc.) through the Diaconate Fund
Job search coaching
Coordinating meals for congregants with special circumstances in partnership with Grace Gatherings
Links to support services throughout the city
Assist in finding counselling services
How can I give financially to the fund?
There are two ways to give to the Diaconate fund. To give online, click here and select 'Diaconate Fund' in the dropdown menu. To give by cheque, make your cheque payable to 'Grace Toronto Church' and write 'Diaconate Fund' on the memo line. For more information about giving financially, visit our giving page.
Want to Serve at Grace?
We have a variety of serving opportunities
both on Sundays and during the week.
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