In the official salutation of Paul the apostle to the Philippians (1:1) it is clear that deacons were officers of the church and were fully recognised by the apostles.  Service, in the sense of caring for the needy and administration of funds, as opposed to preaching or teaching is implied in the original Greek word used [diakonos].  This does not exclude the deacon from witnessing or preaching but such a ministry on the part of the deacon will be as a result of a personal gift or ability and not necessarily as a result of his/her deaconship.  The origin of this office in the Church can be traced to the “attendant” of the Jewish synagogue (Luke 4:20) and it is fair to conclude that such duties as the preparation of the house of God for worship and all that a Church service may require, and the general care of the house of God with all contained therein, are the responsibility of the deacon.  A place of honour is afforded the deaconship in the administration of the church in general (Philippians 1:1).  Deacons therefore are recognised in the Church, and shall be elected to office as set forth in these Rules.

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