Parmenas Deacon
Parmenas
Parmenas (Greek: Παρμενᾶς) was one of the Seven Deacons selected by the early Christian community in Jerusalem to attend to the practical needs of its members. His appointment is documented in the Acts of the Apostles, specifically in Acts 6:5.
Role Among the Seven Deacons
The Seven Deacons, including Parmenas, were chosen to ensure fair distribution of food and resources, particularly to the Hellenistic Jews, who felt neglected in the daily distribution. This group also included notable figures such as Stephen the Protomartyr, Philip the Evangelist, Prochorus, Nicanor, Timon, and Nicholas.
Martyrdom and Legacy
Parmenas is believed to have preached the gospel in Asia Minor. According to tradition, he suffered martyrdom in 98 AD, although details about his death are sparse. His dedication and service have left an indelible mark on the early Christian Church.
Related Figures and Events
Stephen the Protomartyr
Stephen was one of Parmenas's fellow deacons and is most renowned for being the first Christian martyr. His defense of the faith led to his stoning, as chronicled in Acts 7.
Philip the Evangelist
Philip, another of Parmenas's colleagues, played a significant role in spreading Christianity beyond Jerusalem. He is particularly noted for converting the Ethiopian eunuch (Acts 8:26-40).
Prochorus
Prochorus is another member of the Seven Deacons, charged with caring for the poor. Tradition holds that he later became a companion of John the Apostle and served as the Bishop of Nicomedia.
Nicanor and Timon
Nicanor and Timon were also part of this distinguished group. Nicanor is said to have been martyred in 76 AD, while Timon's fate is less well-documented.
Nicholas
Nicholas, the last of the Seven Deacons, is often associated with the city of Antioch. His later followers, the Nicolaitans, are mentioned in the Book of Revelation.
Influence on the Early Church
The appointment of the Seven Deacons, including Parmenas, is a critical event in the establishment of church hierarchy and administration. This early organization was essential for meeting the growing needs of the Christian community, allowing the Apostles to focus on prayer and the ministry of the word.
Connection to Other Early Christian Figures
Parmenas's work in Asia Minor may have intersected with other early Christian leaders such as Paul the Apostle and Peter, whose missionary journeys helped spread Christianity throughout the Roman Empire.