Our Deacons

“In those days when the number of disciples was increasing, the Hellenistic Jews among them complained against the Hebraic Jews because their widows were being overlooked in the daily distribution of food.  So the Twelve gathered all the disciples together and said, ‘It would not be right for us to neglect the ministry of the Word of God in order to wait on tables.  Brothers and sisters, choose seven men from among you who are known to be full of the Spirit and wisdom. We will turn this responsibility over to them and will give our attention to prayer and the ministry of the Word.’ This proposal pleased the whole group. They chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of the Holy Spirit; also Philip, Procorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas from Antioch, a convert to Judaism.  They presented these men to the apostles, who prayed and laid their hands on them.”  (Acts 6:1-6 NIV)

The office of “deacon” is one of the two biblical offices in the church (Philippians 1:1; 1 Timothy 3). The other biblical office is that of “bishop” or “overseer.” (The terms Elder, Pastor (shepherd), and Overseer (bishop) are used synonymously in the New Testament.) 1 Timothy 3 spells out the qualifications for the two offices, bishops in verses 1-7 and deacons in verses 8-13. The qualifications for both are similar, but not identical. The differences in titles and qualifications indicate that the offices are distinct.

Deacons serve at the pleasure of the Pastor; however, they have a critical role in the life and health of our church. Deacons are primarily responsible for watchcare over the church membership (visiting and assisting with the needs of the sick and shut-in, being alert to the spiritual and physical needs of the congregation, dealing with benevolence, ministering to those who are incarcerated, promoting unity within the church, and facilitating the spread of the Gospel), which frees up the Pastor to focus on prayer and ministry of the Word of God. Under the authority of the Pastor, deacons can also baptize, administer the Lord’s Supper, and take on various other responsibilities that support the work of ministry. It is important that deacons perform their duties well, not just for the sake of the church membership, but also for themselves. As 1 Timothy 3:13 says, “Those who have served well gain an excellent standing and great assurance in their faith in Christ Jesus.”

Deacons

Deacon John Newell

Deacon Joyce Nibblins

Deacon Justine Parrish

Deacon Cynthia Young

Deacon Emeritus Rudolph Epps