Acts 6:1-7 - The First Seven Deacons Appointed
1 Now in those days, the disciples being multiplied, there developed a murmuring of the Hellenists against the Hebrews because their widows were neglected in the daily assistance. 2 And the twelve, having summoned the multitude of the disciples, they said, It is not right for us, having left the word of God behind, to serve tables. 3 Therefore, brothers, seek ye out seven men from you being well reported, full of Holy Spirit and of wisdom, whom we may appoint over this need. 4 But we will continue steadfastly in prayer, and in the service of the word. 5 And the word was pleasing before all the multitude. And they chose Stephen, a man full of faith and of Holy Spirit, and Philip, and Prochorus, and Nicanor, and Timon, and Parmenas, and Nicolas, a proselyte, a citizen of Antioch, 6 men whom they placed before the apostles. And having prayed, they laid hands upon them.
7 And the word of God increased, and the number of the disciples multiplied greatly in Jerusalem, and a large company of the priests were obedient to the faith.