“I commend 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 16:1-2
A deaconess, “diakonia” (Greek term meaning servant) is a saved, sanctified woman called by God, sanctioned by the Holy Spirit, and appointed by the Pastor and the church body to minister to the body of Christ in Christian love.
The Deaconess Ministry was organized in March 1925 under the leadership of Pastor and Founder, the Late Reverend J. Wheeler. Over the years, the deaconesses have grown in their spiritual walk with the Lord and to encourage and support the evangelical ministry of Jesus Christ at Antioch and throughout the community.
The purpose of this ministry is to serve Gods people through spiritual care and works of mercy, such as ministering to the spiritual and physical needs of the women young and old. Deaconesses are also called to assist and support the Pastor and deacons in the care of the Communion elements, baptismal services (preparing candidates), funeral services, and other functions where needed.
The goals of the Deaconess Ministry are:
• to encourage and promote a more intimate relationship with Jesus Christ throughout the congregation;
• to be steadfast in learning, teaching, and proclamation of the Good News of Jesus Christ as well as being a living example of obedience to His Word; and
• to continue to be a humble, self-sacrificing vessel for God and the body of Christ.
The objectives of the Deaconess Ministry are:
• to better serve the women (young and old) of SBC in growing spiritually in their walk for Christ;
• to show compassion and aid to those who are sick and shut-in and to be available for anyone needing by the Word of God; and
• to be encouragers for new members coming in to the body of Christ through Christian love, biblical guidance, and constant prayer.