An ordained leader within a Baptist church, this individual serves as a minister alongside the pastor and other church leaders. Responsibilities typically encompass assisting with the spiritual, administrative, and practical needs of the congregation. For example, a church member might turn to them for counsel, assistance during a difficult time, or help coordinating church events.
These individuals play a vital role in the health and functioning of the church. Their service allows the pastor to focus on preaching and teaching, while they address the diverse needs of the church body. Historically, this role emerged from the New Testament, modeled after the servants described in the book of Acts who cared for the marginalized and assisted the apostles.