This ministry is comprised of men who have been set aside and observed by the pastor. After a period of observation and trial by the pastor, they are presented to the church body as candidates for ordination. During the Ordination Service, the men are voted on by the church membership.
The deacon is to serve the church and be an assistant to the pastor. The deacon is set apart to serve. He is committed to serve God and his fellowman. The office of deacon is not one of authority, but one of service. The original purpose for the establishment of deacon service was significant to preserve the spiritual fellowship of His church.
Deacons should perform the following tasks:
- To serve the needs of the members of the church.
- To be ready, prepared and available for the opportunities and responsibilities to serve Christ throughout the church.
- To serve as an assistant to; subordinate to; responsible to; and in cooperation with the pastor of the church. **
The need for deacons can be traced back to the early church. Scriptural reference for deacons can be found in I Timothy 3:1-3 and Acts 6:1-6.
The Deacon Ministry of Morning Star delivers Communion to the Sick and Shut-Ins on the first Sunday of the month, assist in leading Prayer Meeting, along with other duties assigned by the pastor.
**Portions of this information are based upon “The Role of the Deacon in the Black Baptist Church” by Dr. G. Calvin McCutchen, Sr.