Peace and Justice Ministry

This is an opportunity to showcase a way that you have already lived out the calling of a deacon. Here, "Peace and Justice Ministry" are interpreted very broadly. Think about it this way: "Word" is covered in depth in other parts of your application. The broad, theoretical conceptualizations of what it means to be a deacon are also covered. But being a deacon is a hands-on thing, manifested in words of service, compassion, and justice. In this part of the application, BOM is looking for you to try on the role and explain what you did or are doing through the "deacon" lens. That may be in one-on-one work with someone, or work with a family, congregation, community, or beyond.

A real world example of you in action

Don't get caught up in semantics, here, wondering if what you're doing really counts as peace or justice. Think more loosely about compassionate service to those in need - any kind of need. Come up with an example of how you helped, or tried to help - individually or communally. If what you tried didn't work out, that's ok - share what you learned.

Think about this element of your application early - well before the deadline - so that you can design something to meet this requirement if you're not already doing something that fits. Some options to consider include:

thinking about something in your workplace that could be more just or equitable and making a proposal to management to address it (It doesn't need to be Christian, or even spiritual. The important thing is to include in your write-up what motivated you to take this action as an aspiring Christian minister)
leading a conversation in your community or congregation about a social justice issue
Planning some form of activism with your church or seminary (this can be as simple as a postcard station, or as active as going to speak with legislators.
If you're interested in music ministry, you might put together a benefit concert and highlight music and musicians representing the population you're hoping to benefit

There are as many other examples as there are deacons - the point is to do what YOU do best, or what you are passionate about, in a way that you can talk about as an example of what it means to you to be a deacon.

Plan ahead!

It is possible to find examples for this requirement in retrospect - thinking back on what you've already done - but it's a good idea to think about it well ahead of time in case you don't have a concrete example readily available. By thinking about it ahead of time, you give yourself the option to develop a ministry example that really highlights your gifts and identity as a deacon-to-be.