Qualifications
Deacons must be men whose lives are above reproach and characterized by the qualities set forth in 1 Timothy 3:8-13, i.e. dignified, not double-tongued, not addicted to wine, not fond of sordid gain, holding to the mystery of the faith, a "one-wife husband" (if married) who manages his home and children well.

Furthermore, a deacon's wife must be characterized by the qualities set forth in 1 Timothy 3:11, i.e. dignified, not a malicious gossip, temperate and faithful in all things.

A deacon and his wife must be members of Grace Community Church.

Selection Process
Deacons are appointed by the elders to serve as long as they are qualified and willing to serve. The elders, with the assistance of the congregation, identify a potential deacon and inquire if he desires the office of deacon, If so, the deacon is mentored by an elected elder. While being mentored, the deacon participates in the ministry of mercy with the mentoring elder or an elected deacon. Upon completion of the mentoring process, the candidate is evaluated by the congregation in accordance with the qualifications listed in 1 Timothy 3:8-11. (To download a copy of our Deacon Evaluation Form, click here). If qualified, the deacon candidate is appointed and commissioned by the elders to serve as a deacon of Grace Church.

Tenure
Deacons are appointed to an indefinite tenure consistent with their continued desire and ability to serve in this capacity. The removal of deacons from office shall be effected by personal resignation or by disciplinary actions in accordance with the church constitution.

Responsibilities
Deacons minister to the needs of the body under the authority of the elders. Their specific duties are directed by the elders based on the needs of the church. A general description of the responsibilities of the deacons includes:

1. Caring (Proverbs 11:25; Proverbs 22:9) Organize the charitable activities and use Godly wisdom to aid those in the church body with physical needs such as the widows, the elderly, the sick, the jobless, the homeless, etc.
2. Connecting (Psalm 41:1) Intentionally attending to the church family by means of visitation to those who are shut-in, hospitalized, suffering illness, etc. Other inreach responsibilities include, but are not limited to, telephone calls, cards and letters of encouragement, mentoring, prayer and assisting those in distress or conflict to find appropriate help.
3. Counseling (Proverbs 27:9) Provide guidance based on God’s Word for those who are facing losses, decisions or disappointments.
4. Comforting (2 Corinthians 1:3-4) Exhort and encourage those who are suffering in areas such as their faith, fellowship and spiritual growth.

We also highly recommend The New Testament Deacon by Alexander Strauch to better understand the character and function of deacons.

Our Deacons:
Click here to meet our deacons.