What is a Deacon?

• The word "deacon" is based on the Greek work "diakonos," best translated as "servant." This indicates that the role of a deacon is to serve others.The office of deacon in the Christian church originated with the Christians in the book of Acts. In chapter 6, Grecian Jews expressed growing concern for widows not receiving proper care. The twelve apostles assigned a group of people to take care of these women, and they were known as the "diakonos." Many churches believe that the grammar of the word "diakonos" as used in the books of Acts indicates that deacons are to be men. However, some traditions do allow women to hold roles of service, and these women are referred to as "deaconesses."
  
  

What are the Qualifications of a Deacon?

• The first qualification of a deacon is to be "full of the Spirit." First, he must be a Christian. Second, he must be "full of wisdom." Third, he must not be "double-tongued." One theologian explains that this means that he cannot promise things that the Church has not agreed to, and that he must be able to keep confidential any information about situations with which the Church is helping. Fourth, he must not be "greedy for dishonest gain." This is important because a deacon may be called upon to handle or distribute money, which might bring with it great temptation to steal. Finally, a deacon must be "the husband of one wife," meaning that he is not polygamous and is faithful to his wife. A deacon also must manage his own household well.
  
  

Serving the Table of the Minister

• Any duties that a deacon can do will serve the pastor by giving him more time to pray, study, prepare sermons and counsel his people. In some denominations, deacons assist the minister by conducting devotional meetings, providing pulpit supply in the pastor's absence, and caring for the grounds and buildings of the church.
  
  

Serving the Table of the Lord

• Another deacon duty is to to assist with the Lord's Supper. This includes preparing the bread and wine (or juice) before a service, assisting the pastor in serving the elements to the congregation and washing and putting away the cups and plates after the service. A deacon also is responsible for taking Communion to people unable to come to church because of age, illness or other infirmity.
  
  Deacons may also assist with baptisms. Helping female candidates dress for their baptism is a way in which deaconesses traditionally served.
  
  

Serving the Table of the Poor

• One of the biggest duties of a deacon is to assist the Church in caring for the poor. This may include distribution of food, caring for the sick, and the coordination and administration of benevolent giving. Historically, deacons have fulfilled these duties by the administration of orphanages, poorhouses, tract societies, schools and relief missions, in addition to serving the needs of the local congregation.