Role of a Deacon in the Seventh Day Adventist Church

The pressures of clerical life often weigh on religious leaders. In the Christian faith the responsibility of the religious congregation falls on the shoulders of pastors, elders and deacons. Elders and deacons assist pastors in the work of the church. In the Seventh-day Adventist Church, deacons play an active role which allows the pastor freedom to take care of pressing matters in the congregation. Deacons are elected and ordained to their position in the church, as are the church elders.

Deacons and deaconesses (female deacons) often assist with Communion. They provide water, towels, and basins for foot-washing. After the service, they clean the basin and linen used.

Deacons are often responsible for the care and maintenance of church property.

Deacons visit the sick. They pray with them and offer them encouragement.

Deacons often identify those who are needy in a community. Money for the needy is provided from the church treasurer.

Deacons make sure that towels are provided for baptismal candidates. They help the candidates in and out of the baptismal pool.