Our elders
A plurality of qualified men called elders lead Benoni Baptist Church.
Mark Penrith joined Benoni Baptist Church as senior pastor in May 2024. He has been married to Liezl since October 2000, and they have three children, Kaitlyn, Kathryn, and Thomas. Mark served as the senior pastor at Crystal Park Baptist Church Benoni for 12 years, before spending a few years as an associate pastor in Pretoria. Since 1 May 2024.
Andre Broodryk joined Benoni Baptist Church as senior pastor in March 2010. He retired as senior pastor in April 2024, and was recognised as an elder in September 2024. He is married to Cheryl, and between them they have a number of children and grandchildren. Andre graduated from Cape Town Baptist Seminary, and has served a number of churches as full time pastor from 1986. Since 29 September 2024.
David Somerset has served as a deacon and elder at Benoni Baptist Church. He has been married to Barbara since August 1982, and they have two children, Simon, and Melissa. David serves as the church treasurer, and a worship leader. He leads two midweek Bible studies. Since 28 April 2024.
What we teach about elders
The focal point of local church leadership is the office of elders (Philippians 1:2). The pattern of Scripture is that a plurality of these Spirit-enabled men rule local churches (Titus 1:5; James 5:14).
The Bible uses three interchangeable words to refer to the men who serve in this capacity—Elder, overseer and pastor (Acts 20; 1 Peter 5:1-2). The different terms show ministerial function rather than differing levels of authority.
Each member is to take part in the church’s life we recognise that God gifts His Church with elders. They serve by managing and caretaking (1 Timothy 3:5), overseeing (Acts 20:28), ordaining (1 Timothy 4:4). Service includes ruling, teaching and preaching (1 Timothy 5:17; 1 Thessalonians 5:12; 1 Timothy 3:2). As well as exhorting, refuting (Titus 1:9), determining church policy (Acts 15:22). As shepherds, they set an example for all to follow (1 Peter 5:1-3).
Elders are to be men who are above reproach. This blamelessness must extend to his marital, social, business and spiritual life. In this way, he is to pursue and exemplify truth and godliness (1 Timothy 3:2-7; Titus 1:6-8).
Our deacons
Qualified men and women called deacons serve Benoni Baptist Church.
What we teach about deacons
Jesus Christ exemplified servant leadership (Mark 10:45). Christianity is a call to a life of humble service (Ephesians 4:11-12).
Some believers have the spiritual gift of service (Romans 12:7). Recognised deacons serve in a local church (Philippians 1:1-2).
Those who would serve are to live dignified lives (1 Timothy 3:8). They are to be spiritually mature (1 Timothy 3:9-10) and have stable families (1 Timothy 3:11-12).
Both men and women may serve in this capacity (1 Timothy 3:11). In the text, the word translated ‘likewise’ lists elders, male and female deacons (1 Timothy 3:1, 8, 11). The word translated wives (KJV and NIV), given the context, should translate as woman (NASB).
Scripture does not prescribe the function of the deacon. As such, there is much freedom given to the local church about how they ought to operate. At Benoni Baptist Church they serve the congregation for a fixed term of service to God’s glory.
Our staff
Men and woman called or appointed to full-time or part-time positions at Benoni Baptist Church.
Our trustees
The position of trustee is required in our constitution.
Since December 2023.
Since December 2023.
Since December 2023.