Deaconess

Deaconesses were included in the official staff of the early Christian churches. When writing to the Romans, Paul referred to one godly woman in this way. "I commend to you our sister Phoebe, a servant of the church in Cenchrea. I ask you to receive her in the Lord in a way worthy of the saints and to give her any help she may need from you, for she has been a great help to many people, including me." —Romans 6:1, 2.

* Here the word "servant" is also rendered "deaconess." 

While each congregation needs to define the role of its deaconesses, some churches have described them as follows: 

1. Help with the poor
2. Be positive role models (in attitude in lifestyle)
3. Provide hospitality
4. Lend emotional support
5. Counsel teenagers (issues such as teen pregnancy)
6. Build relationships with new members
7. Assist with baptism of female candidates
8. Call shut-ins and sick members.
9. Assist with Communion preparation
10. Visit with, and prepare food for bereaved families

 Leader: Marie Alexander