In the book of Acts a situation arose in which the apostles were not able to devote themselves to the work of being shepherds because the work of being the Christian community had become overwhelming. To solve this problem the community appointed deacons to help with the work of the physical needs of the church so the pastors could devote themselves to their work. The primary work of those early deacons was the serving of food, waiting on tables, so that everyone was served and needs were met. When we say “deacon,” it is an English transliteration of that Greek word, diakinos, which means servant or slave.
For many Christian traditions the role of deacon has changed and evolved throughout church history, but for Baptists and many other denominations the role is still rooted in the idea of service. I, along with many others, have never liked the image of a “deacon board” any more than I like the title “reverend” for pastors. A “board” in 15th century England referred to the table at which the most important people would sit to make decisions. As time passed the use of the word board was no longer in reference to the actual table, but it referred to the people of status sitting around the table. Slaves and servants are not invited to sit at positions of power, at board room tables. This is why I don’t use the phrase “deacon board.”
Our deacons at May Memorial are servants. They serve the congregation very well, and I thank God for our deacons. They take care of many “physical needs” in the church, things associated with the opening and closing of the building each week. Our deacons also prepare for our monthly celebration of the Lord’s Supper. They fill the cups with juice, bake the break, and set the table. The deacons support families after a death, especially when we have a funeral or memorial service at which a funeral home staff is not present. But most importantly, our deacons work to simply make sure the members of our congregation are okay. They call and check on our homebound members, they call and visit those in the hospital and care facilities, and they deliver “goodie bags” several times a year to those who can’t be present. This is just a sample of all the things our deacons do, and their servant work at May Memorial is vital.
This Sunday we will ordain four new deacons. Following the pattern of scripture, we will lay hands upon them, marking that they are set apart for service. These four are:
Mike Koelzer
Jeanan Krueger
Stephen Shaw
Annie Sparrow
Throughout its history May Memorial has had exemplary lay servants and leaders in the church, and I rejoice that this strong heritage continues through our current diaconate.