What is a Kilted Deacon Ministry?

Deacon? - I originally believed that "Deacon" was a title only reserved for "Super Christians" who are meant to be spiritual leaders in the local church. I thought that people with the title should be revered above "normal" Christians and are one step up the chain to spiritual excellence.

When I was asked to become a Deacon, I wasn't sure what to expect or whether I would live up to the expectations, but the Lord impressed upon me what the true meaning of being a deacon was. Deacon comes from the Greek word Diakonos, which is translated as Servant or Minister. My assumptions about the deacon's role were skewed by my humanity and pride. A Deacon is a person who avails themselves to the congregation and to those around them to Serve and Minister in whatever capacity they can. This service involves prayer, counsel, listening, support, and mostly showing God's love and grace to anyone in their path. It is not to be taken lightly or for selfish motives but in the spirit of allowing your heart to be molded to God's heart and allow yourself to be the hands and feet of Jesus Christ.

Kilted? - My last name is Vargason, so for most of my life I assumed that my lineage was Scandinavian, i.e. Son of Varga, Varga being Norwegian for "wolf". However, back in 2021, with a little help from a well-known ancestry site, I discovered that my true lineage was Scottish, changing from Ferguson to Vargason in the 1780s, shortly after my family migrated to the United States.

Having already been stationed in Scotland back in 1994-96, I was "chuffed" to find that I had a rich Scottish heritage dating back to 1542 in Dunfermline, Fife. So, I was authorized to wear two different tartans, the US Navy and Ferguson, and purchased my first and second kilts, to wear with pride.

What is my ministry? - I have been a follower of Christ for 31 years and an Ordained Deacon for five. I have seen a lot of people injured by the hurtful words and actions of "christians" who have seemed to forget the true meaning of love and grace. The name and character of Jesus Christ and God have been damaged by heavy-handed or grace-less christians that have misrepresented our Lord and Saviour. I have also seen the heartbreak and confusion that come from misunderstanding God's love or interactions with humans and the rest of Creation.

I, myself, have been a victim of spiritual abuse or "church hurt" and struggled with anxiety, depression, and loss. However, throughout all the trials and tribulations that I have been through, I have seen the hand of God and the love of Jesus Christ permeate my life and give me strength and purpose when all has seemed bleak and dark.

Over the last two years, God has allowed me to become a Board-Certified Mental Health Coach and a Life Coach, with further training in biblical counseling and trauma-informed soul care. This training, coupled with my spiritual life experiences, make up the backdrop, and purpose for my ministry, and equip me with the tools to minister and serve anyone that God brings into my path.

The Ferguson Clan's motto is Dulcius Ex Asperis, which means "sweetness after difficulties", which is perfect considering that my calling in life is to step into other people's darkness and to walk alongside them as God helps them through their struggles by the direction and power of the Holy Spirit.

My hope for this webpage and ministry is to share glimpses and truths from God's word and heart, to prove to you that:

• You were created in the image of God and are deeply loved by the Infinite Creator

• Jesus Christ suffered, died, and rose again because of His love for you

• By accepting Him and turning from your rebellion, He has provided a way to have an intimate personal daily relationship with Him and the Father

• You were built for a community with other believers, to grow closer to your God, and have a profound effect on those around you

• I am here to be your friend and to walk alongside you in whatever capacity that you need