Deacon Darlene Collom Appointed Archdeacon for Deacons

The Anglican Diocese of the South is pleased to announce that Archbishop Foley Beach has appointed Deacon Darlene Collom as the new Archdeacon for Deacons.

Since her ordination in November 2021, Deacon Darlene has faithfully served at Christ the King Anglican Church in Hiawassee, Georgia. Her primary ministry has focused on emotional healing, prayer, and deliverance. “It’s deeply humbling and a great joy to see Jesus show up and bring healing to the broken and hurting,” she shared.

Deacon Darlene has worked closely with outgoing Archdeacon, Deacon Sandi Harding, since her ordination and expressed deep gratitude for her leadership. “Her deep love of Jesus and her desire to unite the deacons in ADOTS in our various servant ministries have been inspiring. I truly believe God has called me to build on her vision as the next Archdeacon.”

In her first year, Deacon Darlene plans to focus on building relationships across the Diocese. “My focus will be on getting to know each one of our deacons, hearing the ways God is working through each ministry, and discovering how we as a diocese can best support each one.”

Reflecting on the heart of diaconal ministry, she said:

“Jesus said in Luke 22:27, ‘I am among you as one who serves.’ All ministry is to be modeled on the example of Jesus. Whether deacon, priest, or bishop, all are first deacon. Jesus is the great Deacon. For all of us, as deacons, we strive (with Jesus’s help) to model and reflect His servant heart in whatever ministry He has placed us. My prayer as Archdeacon is to serve the deacons in our Diocese in a way that lifts up each ministry to bring honor and glory to our dear Savior.”

Archbishop Foley Beach expressed his gratitude and excitement regarding the appointment:

“I am deeply grateful to Deacon Sandi Harding for her faithful and fruitful leadership as Archdeacon for our Deacons. Her love for Christ and her heart to strengthen and unify our deacons has left a lasting mark on our Diocese. I am also very thankful that Deacon Darlene has agreed to serve in this role. I am excited about the season ahead and confident that the Lord will use her gifts, wisdom, and servant heart to encourage and strengthen our deacons across the Diocese.”

The Diocese gives thanks for Deacon Sandi Harding’s faithful service and welcomes Deacon Darlene into this important ministry with gratitude and prayer.

ADOTS Deacons at the 2025 Synod & Conference at Holy Cross Cathedral in Loganville, GA.