Deacons

1 Timothy 3 lays out specific qualifications for deacons:

“Deacons are to be worthy of respect, sincere, not indulging in much wine, and not pursuing dishonest gain. They must keep hold of the deep truths of the faith with a clear conscience. They must first be tested; and then if there is nothing against them, let them serve as deacons. In the same way, the women are to be worthy of respect, not malicious talkers but temperate and trustworthy in everything."

Deacons must be faithful members of this church and meet the specific qualifications outlined to include:

  • Christlike Character – a deacon must possess Christlike character. Those outlined in 1 Timothy include having a good reputation and being worthy of respect, not indulging in much wine, not pursuing dishonest gain, not malicious talkers, temperate and trustworthy in everything. In other words, they must be self-controlled and holy in their speech, actions, and desires. 
  • Family Life and Singleness – If the deacon candidate is married, the fruit of a healthy marriage is evident to others. If they have children, they must manage their household well. The candidate's spouse and children must support the idea of the specific individual serving as a deacon. If they are single, they must demonstrate a life of sexual purity. 
  • Doctrine – the deacon candidate must possess sound doctrine and hold fast to the faith with a good conscience.  
  • Approved – The deacon candidate must be a formal member in good standing with The Chapel, and the deacon candidate must be first tested and approved by the church prior to serving in the office of deacon. This candidate should already have a track record of faithful service to the local church.

Both men and women are able to serve in the role of deacon at The Chapel. We believe that scripture does not limit this role on the basis of gender (see 1 Timothy 3:11 and Romans 16:1-2), and that our church benefits from the healthy interdependence of men and women serving together in the role of deacon.

Following a recommendation from each Campus Pastor and a review of each candidate, the Board of Overseers has appointed the following individuals to serve as deacons for the upcoming year:

CrossPoint Campus
Don Arnts
Eric Czubaj
Jessie Czubaj
Steven Daniels
Greg Garrett
Brett McDowell
Heather McDowell
Michael McDowell
Deb Shaffer
Lynette Wrigglesworth
Mark Wrigglesworth
Brett Wymer

Lockport Campus
Karen Barrett
Paul Grimaldi
Sherry Grimaldi
Dan Verratti
Ruth Verratti

Niagara Falls Campus
Elizabeth Dixon
Jennifer Kavanagh
Michael Parker
Jan Scott
Teresa Sczesniak
Charlie Spallino
Ruth Verratti
Tim Verratti

Cheektowaga Campus
Richard Carrow
Carol Samborski