The community grew, and grew; and all wanted to know of Jesus teachings, and the numbers of followers was increasing daily; and dissension was growing between the Hebrews and the Hellenists, complaining about the distribution of food among the widows within each group. 

The Apostles saw this increasing problem, and said, “It is not right that we should neglect the word of God in order to wait on tables. Therefore, friends, select from among yourselves seven men of good standing whom we may appoint to this task, while we, for our part, will devote ourselves to serving the word.”

The community liked the idea, and the people chose Stephen, Phillip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenas and Nicholas. These men stood before the Apostles, who prayed, and laid hands upon them. These seven were the first Deacons of the new Christian Community, and they ministered serving the people.

The ministry of the Deacon continued in many parts of the growing church; always with the idea that they were servants; servants of the Apostles, and, of the people. However, they did other things also. Some, with the fervor of Christ within them, preached the word of God; they told people of Jesus death and resurrection; His ascension, and of the hope of His coming again.

Stephen, preaching in the synagogue of the Freedmen, not among the Christians, fell into argument, and filled with the Holy Spirit preached against their not keeping the law ordained by Angels. This enraged them to the point they dragged him out of the city to stone him to death. As they did so, Stephen cried out in a loud voice, “Lord, do not hold this sin against them.” And he died. 

With this in mind, the Deacon of today does his work outside of the walls of the church, and in everyday life of the people. The Deacon is given the job of telling the Church, from that perspective, the needs of the world. It is an unpopular task, and yet, a ministry he accepts when ordained.

Many Deacons, after a time, become clergy with other responsibilities. They become pastors and priests of flocks and congregations. Some, even after serving in those capacities become Bishop’s and administrators. These new duties show an ability to serve, and a commitment to the church. But all who have started as Deacons, and grown into other ministries will usually tell you, they are first, and always will be servant ministers, or deacons in the church they serve. Their hearts and fervor remain that of a simple servant.  AMEN

The Rev. George O. Martin is an Ordained Deacon at St. John’s Episcopal Church, 17th and Adams, Great Bend. Send email to georgeom@hbcomm.net.