YATES BAPTIST CHURCH

Deacon Covenant

November 2014 Page 6–7 of Yates Deacon Handbook

By the grace of God, in keeping with the mind and purpose of our Lord as stated in His Holy Scripture, we commit ourselves to using the following Roles and Qualifications as a guide in the selection of deacons and as a set of standards to which we hold ourselves accountable to our church and to God.

Deacon Roles

The word deacon (Greek: diakonos, meaning “servant”) refers to one called to minister in partnership with the pastor, staff, and church committees in meeting the spiritual and physical needs of the church body and extending ministry to the larger community encompassing the city, region, and world. Specifically, deacons are responsible for:

Ministering to individual members or families in the congregation, visitors, and unchurched persons.
Staying informed of the needs and joys of members of the congregation, and praying with petition, thanksgiving, intercession, and commitment.
Serving as Deacon of the Week, which may include making visits to new visitors on Sunday afternoon and delivering new member packets.
Participating as active members of Deacon Ministry Teams.
Serving as leaders and unifiers to heal division in the church and providing guidance on potentially divisive issues that might arise from time to time.
Being one of three groups of servant leaders which influence, interpret, and administer congregational decisions. These groups are the pastor and staff, the deacons, and the various committees. The congregation as a whole, assembled in business meetings, has the ultimate authoritative power to direct the affairs of Yates Baptist Church.
Attending to the spiritual life and development of the church (spiritual leaders).
Helping to equip church members to perform their responsibilities as Christians and as church members.
Providing services which help meet the physical needs of church members.
Demonstrating their commitment and faith by being consistent and loyal members of the church.
Carrying out other deacon responsibilities as may be required, such as serving the Lord’s Supper and assisting with baptisms.

Deacon Qualifications

(based on 1 Timothy 3:8–13)

Scriptural Reference	Interpretation
Worthy of Respect	A person who professes belief in Jesus Christ as personal Lord and Savior. A person of proven Christian character who takes responsibilities seriously and seeks to promote church harmony.
Sincere	Does not engage in gossip; dependable in what they say.
Not Indulging in Much Wine	Sets an example for others to follow; does not abuse the use of alcohol.
Not Pursuing Dishonest Gain	Demonstrates sound and ethical financial practices in their personal and professional lives.
Keeps Hold of the Deep Truths of the Faith	Understands and obeys Christian doctrine; bases decisions on the Word of God; consistent reader of Scripture; maintains an active and regular prayer life.
Tested and Proved	Sets a Christian example before the church and community; active participant in church life (regular attendance); practices tithing; at least 21 years of age; church member for one year or more.
Wife is a Woman Worthy of Respect	Spouse is a believer who supports the ministry of the deacon; spouse is not given to slanderous talk and is faithful in all they do.
Husband of One Wife	Faithful in marriage. Divorce is acceptable. Singles are acceptable.
Manages His Children and Household Well	Committed to building and maintaining a Christian home and family life.

I commit to using these Deacon Roles and Qualifications as a set of standards to which I hold myself accountable to my church and to God.

Deacon Signature

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