Chapter 4: Of the Call, Office and Duties of the Deacons. The Deacons

are elected at the same time, place, and in all respects in the same manner as the Elders, and they also are installed exactly as the Elders. Their duties are these: Like the Elders to collect the offerings at the church doors made for the poor, and to keep an account of the receipts in a separate book; annually to visit the families of the congregation and receive their offerings for the poor, and to use and apply these gifts for the benefit of the poor; when distinguished and wealthy Lutherans visit the place to call upon them and ask an offering for the poor; to receive all legacies intended for the poor, and to keep an account of all these receipts. Then follow full directions for the care and relief of the poor, the needy, the stranger, with a thoroughly organized system for the whole work. The Deacons have nothing to do with the general affairs of the congregation, but are charged with the care of the poor and needy, and with this alone.