I’ve got an announcement to make! It is my privilege to let you know that the Deacon Nominating Committee is recommending during the November 14 Business Meeting that the following members of First Baptist Church of Plano be elected by the church to serve as deacons:

Aaron Abbott
James Fisher
James Porter (Jim) Smith
Dwayne Weaver

Deacons at First Baptist Church of Plano are elected by the church to assist the pastor in the work of the church. Their distinguishing characteristics are spiritual leadership and a commitment to service. Those characteristics are to be demonstrated through consistent attendance in worship, Bible study and other meetings of the congregation. Deacons tithe, accept leadership roles, and have good reputations. They demonstrate spiritual and emotional maturity in their conduct.

The members of the Deacon Nominating Committee are Joe McAnally, Rick Weaver, Ollie Hensley, Jimmie Shehane, and Jim Massey. Your nominations were prayerfully considered and the committee invited a number of candidates to complete a questionnaire. A group of those completing the questionnaire were invited to further discussion and conversation with the committee. After prayerful consideration, the committee is unanimous in recommending these four for deacon service.

This year, for the first time, our church bylaws contain no language that limits the role of deacon to men. Each year, the committee examines pertinent Scriptures, seeking the Lord’s guidance and timing in recommending members for your consideration to serve as deacons. Next spring, I have agreed to provide a series of in-depth studies during Sunday evening worship that will assist us as a congregation in faithfully interpreting God’s Word, specifically pertaining to the role of deacons and the role of women in the church.

This I know: God will guide us as we choose to follow Him.

I’m proud to be your pastor,

Jerry