Acts 6:1-7 - The First Seven Deacons Appointed

1 The number of disciples increased at that time. A murmuring arose on the part of the Grecians against the Hebrews, because their widows were neglected in the daily distribution. 2 The twelve called the congregation of the disciples to them. They said: It would not be right for us to neglect the ministry of the word of God and serve tables. 3 Therefore brothers select seven men who have a good reputation. Men who are full of spirit and wisdom that we may appoint to take care of this business. 4 We will give our attention to prayer and the ministry of the word. 5 The idea pleased the whole congregation. 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 of Antioch, 6 whom they set before the apostles. After they prayed, they laid their hands on them.

7 The word of God increased. The number of the disciples greatly multiplied in Jerusalem. Even a great number of priests became obedient to the faith.