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A Deaconess, according to the Founding Primate and Patriarch of the African Orthodox Church His Eminence George Alexander McGuire, is a servant of God and God's Church.
The African Orthodox Church is part of the One, Holy, Catholic and Apostolic Church.
After 10 years of dedicated service, the Sisters of Compassion were recognized, examined, and qualified for Holy Orders; and in 1982, by favor of His Eminence G.D. Hinkson, M.D., D.D. were consecrated.
COMPASSION, that is, sympathy to others' distress and suffering, with the desire and the will to help, embodies the very essence of Christ, his teachings, and example. Where duty calls, the Sisters of Compassion find themselves in all diligence.
Through the administration and sponsorship of the St. John Coltrane Memorial Human Outreach Programs, they feed those who are hungry, clothe the naked, and take in those who need shelter and are homeless.
The Sisters distribute bread and pastries door to door, on the streets, to schools, and other food programs. Children are cared for; mothers are given guidance in child rearing, and in the meeting of the physical and emotional needs of children. They broadcast a spiritually UPLIFTing radio program; ongoing musical instruction is provided. They are nurses and healthcare workers.
In addition, the Sisters teach Sunday School classes and ready congregants for baptism and confirmation. In all of these labors, the Sisters fulfill their vows; namely, to administer to the wants of a suffering world; to minister to the poor, visit the sick, pray with the dying, care for the orphan, seek the wandering, comfort the sorrowing, and lead the sinning to their Saviour.
May the God of Love bless you and give you the Spirit of Compassion. |
