Leadership Team Guide
This guide is intended for current and prospective deacons at Hill Cliffe Baptist Church. It provides a practical overview of the responsibilities, expectations, and spiritual calling of a deacon. It is fully aligned with the guidance provided by the Baptist Union of Great Britain (BUGB).
What is a Deacon?
Deacons shall, with the ministers (if any), be responsible for the leadership of the church, the fulfilment of its purpose, the pastoral care of its members, and its day-to-day management and administration.
At Hill Cliffe, the term 'Diaconate' refers to elected deacons. The term ’Leadership Team' refers to all members of Leadership including deacons, church secretary, treasurer and minister(s). The terms are often used interchangeably.
Deacons are expected to be:
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Servant Leaders
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Decision Makers
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Collaborative Workers
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Organisers of Church Life
Biblical Foundation
The role of a deacon is rooted in Scripture, particularly in Acts 6:1–7 and 1 Timothy 3:8–13, where deacons are called to serve with integrity, wisdom, and a good reputation. Deacons are spiritually mature individuals whose lives reflect Christian character and service.
Legal Responsibilities and Governance
Hill Cliffe Baptist Church is a registered charity. All deacons are charity trustees under UK law.
Key responsibilities of trustees include:
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Ensure the charity is carrying out its purposes for the public benefit
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Comply with the church’s constitution
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Act in the church’s best interest
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Manage the church’s resources responsibly
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Act with reasonable care and skill
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Ensure the church is accountable
Deacons must read and be familiar with the church constitution. Additional key documents include:
- BUGB Guideline Leaflet C15: Help I’m a Charity Trustee
- BUGB Guideline Leaflet C16: Help I’m a Deacon
- Baptist Basics 8: Leadership in the Local Church
- Hill Cliffe’s Safeguarding and Data Protection Policies
Being a Deacon at Hill Cliffe
Deacons are appointed for a three-year term and may be re-elected for another three years. After two terms, a break of at least one year is encouraged.
Deacons meet twice monthly on the second and third Mondays at 7:30pm. Meetings typically end by 9:30pm but may run longer if needed.
Responsibilities and Role Allocation
Upon appointment, each deacon is invited to consider areas of service that match their gifts and calling. Example roles include:
- Worship Coordination
- Pastoral Care
- Small Group Administration
- Buildings and Maintenance
- Mission and Outreach
- Safeguarding
Sunday Duty Deacon
Each Sunday, a deacon serves as Duty Deacon. This role includes keyholding responsibilities, oversight of Sunday morning setup, and lock up. A checklist is available for this role.
Confidentiality and Discretion
Deacons will often be entrusted with sensitive information. All discussions within deacons’ meetings are confidential unless agreed otherwise by the group. A deacon may share matters with their spouse or a trusted individual for prayer and discernment, but even this should be treated with caution and discretion. In some circumstances the deacons will agree not to share information with anyone outside the leadership team.
Induction for New Deacons
New deacons will be welcomed and supported through:
- A review of this guide and key documents
- Introduction to the church constitution
- Mentoring by an experienced deacon
- Observation and learning in the first few meetings
Conclusion
Serving as a deacon is a sacred and practical calling. It requires commitment, humility, wisdom, and love for Christ and His church. Deacons play a crucial part in fulfilling the mission of Hill Cliffe Baptist Church.