The ministry of the deacons and deaconesses during apostolic times was related to services of different kinds in the early church. It is a commonly accepted belief that the work of the deacons began with the selection of seven men, including Stephen and Phillip, by the apostles to care for the charitable work of the Jerusalem church. (Acts 6:5-7) Later, the New Testament mentions the service of deaconesses, such as Phoebe. (Romans 16:1)
IMPORTANCE OF THE OFFICE
To be involved in the service of Jesus at any level of His calling is to follow Him, who said, “For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve.” (Mark 10:45 & Matthew 20:28)
QUALIFICATION FOR DEACONS AND DEACONESSES
In choosing the initial deacons of the church, the apostles did not look for their social class, educational attainment, national origin, economic status, or racial background. They laid out the fundamental qualifications that leaders chosen to serve the church should possess.
- Be Worthy of Respect;
- Be Truthful in Speech;
- Be Temperate;
- Be Honest,
- Lead a Consistent Life
- Be Beyond Reproach
- Be a Responsible Spouse
- Be a Godly Parent
ORDINATION
A newly elected deacon or deaconess, before beginning service, is ordained. Ordination is a special service performed by a credentialed Pastor. This service includes a prayer for the Holy Spirit to work with and through the deacon/deaconess as they serve in the church.
DUTIES/ROLES
- Assistance of Services and Meetings;
- Visitation of Members;
- Preparation for Baptismal Services
- Assistance at the Communion Service;
- Care for the sick and aiding the poor;
- Care and Maintenance of the Church Property
The call of Jesus is to be like Him in service. It is not enough to take the title of deacon/deaconess but to take the towel instead, wash the feet of another, and take the bread and share it with others. (John 13:3-17)
CONTACT INFORMATION:
Marsell Russell
Head Deacon
Email: deacons@conyerschurch.org
Denitha Cummins
Head Deaconess
Email: deaconess@conyerschurch.org