The Definition of a Deacon
“Now in those days when the number of disciples was multiplying, there arose a complaint against the Hebrews by the Hellenists, because their widows were neglected in the daily distribution. Then the twelve summoned the multitude of the disciples and said, "It is not desirable that we should leave the word of God and serve tables. Therefore, brethren, seek out from among you seven men of good reputation, full of the Holy Spirit and wisdom, whom we may appoint over this business; but we will give ourselves continually prayer and to the ministry of the word. And the saying pleased the whole multitude. And they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit, and Philip, Prochorus, Nacanor, Timon, Parmenas, and Nicolas, a proselyte from Antioch, whom they set before the apostles; and when they had prayed, they laid hands on them. Acts 6:1-16 (NKJV).
The role or office of deacon was developed in the early church primarily to minister to the physical needs of the members of the body of Christ. The term deacon comes from the Greek word diakonos, meaning servant of minister. It appears at least 29 times in the New Testament with the first reference of deacon as an official position in the local congregation being found in Philippians 1:1 (NKJV), where the Apostle Paul says, "To all saints in Christ Jesus who are in Philippi, with Bishops and Deacons."
The role or office of deacon was developed in the early church primarily to minister to the physical needs of the members of the body of Christ. The term deacon comes from the Greek word diakonos, meaning servant of minister. It appears at least 29 times in the New Testament with the first reference of deacon as an official position in the local congregation being found in Philippians 1:1 (NKJV), where the Apostle Paul says, "To all saints in Christ Jesus who are in Philippi, with Bishops and Deacons."
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When New Creation Christian Fellowship was established in 1985, they were simply known as Handmaidens and Servants. In 1990, the first NCCF Deacons were ordained with many more to follow. At one point, the Diaconate had grown to more than 65 active Deacons. Some Deacons have departed this earthly tabernacle and are now serving around the Throne while others have been elevated in ministry as Ministers and Elders. Some have gone on to work in other parts of the vineyard and yet others have earned Emeritus/Emerita status and/or retired due to age and/or illness.
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Between 1990 – 2025, the Diaconate were led by three dynamic Diaconate Chairmen who also served as the NCCF Senior Deacon: Deacon (Elder) Charles Hobbs, Deacon (Emeritus) Charley Terrell and Deacon Kenneth Bonner who is the current Immediate Past Chairman.
Elder Charles Hobbs
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Deacon (Emeritus) Charley Terrel
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Deacon Kenneth Bonner
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In October 2025, Deacon Lisa Ellsworth assumed the mantle of Diaconate Chairman and NCCF Senior Deacon. Continuing the tradition of excellence established by those who served before her, she is poised to lead the Diaconate into its “next”. |
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The NCCF Diaconate continues to “kick up the dust” and advance the Kingdom of God by ministering before God and to His people through their service. |
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Scriptural Inspiration:
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"For even the Son of Man did not come to be served, but to serve..." Mark 10:45 |