The New Testament shows two scriptural offices in the church–pastors and deacons. Our church elects twelve men each year to serve a two-year term as deacon.
I often get asked how we elect deacons. At this point I smile and say that God didn’t make any mistakes but He came close when He didn’t tell Baptists how to elect deacons. To elect deacons, we employ a team made up of the Senior Pastor, the current deacon officers, and the past two deacon chairmen. This groups meets almost year round to pray and consider those men who feel led to nominate as deacons. At that point, the church elects twelve men to serve. While we recognize this is not perfect, we are thankful to be electing deacons this way at this time. We continue to look for those ways to make this better.
These are twelve men our church elected to begin serving in January 2013. They are listed in the left-hand column. Those in the right-hand column are currently serving and will serve until their term ends December 31, 2013.
2013-2014 2012-2013
Bill Allen Sean Barnes
Cliff Anglin Jim Bishop
John Brown Eddie Dease
Sam Camp Michael Fairburn
John Fricke Jason Hunt
Buddy Hall Rock Kendrick
Johnathan Hills Michael Martin
Stephen Mikell Larry McKinney
Dale Padgett Rhett Rush
Dwayne Schaefer Todd Snure
Brad Thompson Steve Soileau
Charles Vandercook Otto Walker
I thank God for those who are willing to serve in areas of leadership. Without those who take on areas of responsibility, we could not be a church. The work of the church is done as the Spirit gives gifts and as we exercise those gifts. Our deacons take on the spiritual ministry of the church. They pray, visit hospitals, communicate the Gospel, and lead in ministry to the church.
I especially appreciate all the men who offered themselves for service as deacons. This is a big step that requires Godly people. I commend them all for their deep commitment to Christ and for their service to the church.
We will have a special service in January to pray for and encourage those who have been set apart to serve as a deacon.
Our deacons are important to the ministry of the church. “For those who serve well as deacons gain a good standing for themselves and also great confidence in the faith which is in Christ Jesus.” (1 Timothy 3:13)
Please remember to pray for these men and for your church as you elect/select leaders.
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One Response
Amen.