| The National Deacons’ Union was established in June, 1973 in Nashville, Tennessee, under the leadership of Bishop James W. Jenkins, Chief Overseer. For over thirty-three years the National Deacons’ Union has worked on the national, state and local level as well as in Nassau, the Bahamas, Jamaica, West Indies and the Island of Haiti.
The first elected National Deacon’s Union President was Deacon Vincent George of Utica, New York and the first appointed National Deacons’ Union President was Deacon James Thomas Fields of Delray Beach, Florida. The current President is Deacon Johnnie Lee King of Miami, Florida.
Deacons were first chosen within the New Testament Church in Jerusalem out of necessity in the First Century of the Christian Church as outlined in Acts Chapter 6. The office of Deacon was recorded also in I Timothy 3:8-13. These scriptures outline the qualifications of those who serve in this capacity. Verse 3 sets high standards for those seven men who were chosen by the church. The standards were:
- Men of good report (reputation)
- Men deeply spiritual and full of the Holy Ghost
- Men of wisdom and sound judgment and Common Sense
- Men that rule well their homes, having their children under subjection
- Given to hospitality
- Apt to teach
These men were set before the Apostles who after prayer, laid their hands on them.
Deacons within the House of God Church who have proven the office of a Deacon have studied and acquired a good knowledge of the Bible and the Church Decree, are recommended for Ordination during the General Assembly held each June in Nashville, Tennessee.
The National Deacon’s Union is comprised of Trial and Ordained Deacons and Deaconesses who meet regularly to unite in their service to the Church and to transact business, set goals and develop plans for the progress of the Church. These works are in keeping with the establishment of the Deacons’ Union as a unified body, and not just servants in title only.
In the year 2000, the Deacons’ Union ceremonially joined the International Missionary Outreach Society in hosting the International Missionary Summit held biannually. Deacons also support all programs held on the National level and support state and local programs and activities in their respective Dioceses. |
