Acts 6:1-7
Chapter 6
Institution of the Seven
In those days, as the number of disciples increased, the so-called Hellenists complained against the so-called Hebrews, because their widows were being neglected in the daily distribution.So the Twelve called the entire group of disciples together and said:
“It is not right for us to neglect the word of God to serve at tables.
So, friends, choose seven respected men among yourselves, full of Spirit and wisdom, that we may appoint them to this task.
As for us, we will dedicate ourselves to prayer and the ministry of the word.”
The entire community agreed, and they selected Stephen, a man full of faith and the Holy Spirit; Philip, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, Parmenus, and Nicolaus of Antioch, a convert to Judaism.
They introduced these men to the apostles, who first prayed over them and then laid hands on them.
The word of God kept spreading, and the number of disciples in Jerusalem grew significantly, and even many priests accepted the faith.