The Presbyterian Church in America (PCA) recognizes the office of Deacon as one of two “ordinary and perpetual” offices of ordained service in the church. Chapter 9, paragraph 2 of the PCA’s Book of Church Order clarifies that “in the discharge of their duties the deacons are under the supervision and authority of the Session. In a church in which it is impossible for any reason to secure deacons, the duties of the office shall devolve upon the ruling elders.”
At the present time, Antioch does not yet have Deacons, but is in the process of identifying, training, and proving men fit for this office “of sympathy and service, after the example of the Lord Jesus” (BCO 9-1).
Antioch’s current session of elders includes the following men, who are discharging the duties of the office of Deacon:
- Pastor Zachary Groff – Teaching Elder; Full-time Pastor & Moderator of Session
- Dr. Joseph A. Pipa, Jr., PhD, DD – Teaching Elder; Part-time Pastor
- Mr. Jeffrey A. Danes – Ruling Elder
- Mr. J. Richard Long – Ruling Elder; Clerk of Session
Antioch’s Session of Elders in November 2024: (left to right) Josh Marcus (presently inactive), Jeff Danes, Zack Groff, Joey Pipa, & Rick Long
