Can Church Elders & Deacons Baptize?

[Levite]

I have seen church elders conducting holy communion and funeral services in the SDA church. I have not seen elders and deacons baptizing members who believe and seek baptismal services. This is despite the bible describing Philip baptizing the Ethiopian eunuch (Acts 8:26-40). Paul too baptized, even though he was an apostle and despite expressing clearly that Jesus did not send him to baptize but to preach the gospel (1 Corinthians 1:14-17). Why are elders and deacons not allowed to baptize people in the SDA church?

 

[Cassandra]

Our Head elder baptizes. He has done a few, one as late as today.

 

[Levite]

@Cassandra this is the first time I've heard an elder baptizing. I love to hear it. I think this should be a commonplace occurrence.

 

[Cassandra]

According to the Seventh-day Adventist Church Manual, the administration of baptism is typically performed by ordained pastors. However, in the absence of an ordained pastor, a local church elder may officiate the baptismal service, provided they have obtained prior permission from the conference president. The Church Manual specifies that "a local church elder should not officiate in the baptismal service without first obtaining permission from the conference/mission/field president." This protocol ensures that the sacred rite of baptism is conducted in harmony with church policies and maintains organizational unity.