First Deacons Appointed in Cincinnati by Joe Dilts

July 17, 2005 was an historic day for the Cincinnati Church of Christ. On that date, three men who have distinguished themselves by years of service to the body were appointed as the first Deacons of the Church by evangelist Tom Caswell.

Marshall Hopkins was appointed Deacon of Benevolence. Marshall has been overseeing benevolence in the church for a few years and has done an outstanding job. He and his wife, Marina, also lead a Family Group and serve the church in many, great, but frequently unseen ways. They have two daughters.

Andy Erickson was appointed Deacon of Children’s Ministry. Andy and his wife Andrea have overseen the "Kid’s Kingdom" for a number of years. They have worked selflessly to help meet the spiritual needs of our children by organizing and presenting and engaging and educational classes and motivating the “army” of teachers and assistants who staff the classes. Andy and Andrea have three daughters.

Phil Bruns was appointed Deacon of Building and Grounds. Phil has a background in construction which has equipped him well for this responsibility. Since God blessed us recently with our own 30,000 square foot facility, an entirely new set of needs has emerged and Phil has been tireless in volunteering his expertise and knowledge to the upkeep and maintenance of our building. Phil and his wife, Beth have four daughters.

Regarding the qualifications of Deacons, the Bible states:

Deacons, likewise, are to be men 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, their wives are to be women worthy of respect, not malicious
talkers but temperate and trustworthy in everything. A deacon must be
the husband of but one wife and must manage his children and his household
well. Those who have served well gain an excellent standing and
great assurance in their faith in Christ Jesus. (I Tim 3:8-13 NIV.)

These men, through the examples set first with their families, and then in their service to the body, have demonstrated that they are well qualified for this role. Let’s thank God for their service and help them with willing spirits!