These men must first be tested; then if they are found to be blameless and beyond reproach [in their Christian lives], let them serve as deacons.

Deacons must be husbands of only one wife, and good managers of their children and their own households.

If any believing woman has [dependent] widows [in her household], she must assist them [according to her ability]; and the church must not be burdened [with them], so that it may assist those who are truly widows [those who are all alone and are dependent].