The office of deacon as set forth in Scripture is one of sympathy, witness, and service after the example of Jesus Christ.   Persons of spiritual character, honest repute, of exemplary lives, brotherly and sisterly love, warm sympathies, and sound judgment should be chosen for this office.

It is the duty of deacons, first of all, to minister to those who are in need, to the sick, to the friendless, and to any who may be in distress.  They shall assume such other duties as may be delegated to them from time to time by the session.

The deacons of a particular church shall organize as a board, of which the pastor, co-pastors, associate pastors, and assistant pastors shall be advisory members.  The board of deacons shall elect a moderator and a secretary from among its members.  The secretary shall keep a record of the board's proceedings.

As the whole church is under the jurisdiction of the session, the board of deacons shall be under its supervision and authority.  The records of the board of deacons shall be submitted to the session at least annually and at other times upon the request of the session.  The session may void or amend any action of the board of deacons, or direct the board to reconsider such action.

The board shall meet regularly, or upon the call of its moderator, or when directed to meet by the session, but it shall meet at least quarterly.  The board shall determine its own quorum.  A joint meeting of the session and board of deacons shall be held at least annually to confer on matters of common interest, with the moderator of the session presiding.  No binding decision may be reached in such joint meeting, but the session and the board may act separately on matters committed to their care.

Deacons may be appointed by governing bodies to serve on committees or as trustees.  The session may select and appoint other members of the congregation to assist the deacons in their ministry of compassion.

A congregation by a majority vote may elect not to use the office of deacon.  In such a case, or in the case where deacons cannot be secured, the function of the office shall always be preserved and shall devolve upon the elders and the session.