The word used for deacon in the New Testament identifies is the Greek word “diakonos,” interpreted as “servant, minister, writer, or attendant.” In Christian circles, this Greek word has acquired the specialized meaning now attached to the English word “deacon.” Their qualifications, listed in 1 Timothy 3:8-13 (NKJV), reads:
8 Likewise deacons must be reverent, not double-tongued, not given to much wine, not greedy for money, 9 holding the mystery of the faith with a pure conscience. 10 But let these also first be tested; then let them serve as deacons, being found blameless. 11 Like
The individuals who serve on the Board of Deacons were chosen and ordained to attend to the business of the church, the special work of looking after the needs of the poor, and they also engage in teaching the faith.
The work of deacons involves a wide range of services for the church, including:
1. Deacons cooperate with the pastor and elders for smooth functioning of all meetings. They may also assist the usher department in welcoming members and visitors as they enter the church and for assisting them, where necessary, to find seats.
2. Deacons are charged with the visitation of members. They are expected to visit each home assigned to them at least once a quarter.
3. Deacons make necessary preparations for baptismal services.
4. Deacons provide assistance at Communion Service. At the service of foot-washing, they provide everything needed, such as towels, basins, water, and buckets. After the service they see that the utensils and linen are washed and properly stored. The remaining bread and wine should be disposed of in a respectful manner by deacons and deaconesses following the Lord’s Supper.
5. Deacons (and deaconesses) are charged with assisting the sick, poor, and unfortunate and should keep the church informed of their needs and enlist the support of members.
6. Care and maintenance of church property.
Head Deacon: Bro Bryan Ellis