Concept:Deacons in the early church were chosen to handle daily practical service, especially caring for the needy.
Explanation:The apostles appointed seven men, including Stephen, to oversee the daily distribution of food.
This task was needed because the Greek-speaking widows were being neglected in the daily service.
Stephen and the other deacons therefore focused on catering for the poor and needy, not on preaching or defending the faith.
Preaching and performing signs were done by the apostles and later by Stephen as a witness, but these were not the primary reason for his appointment as a deacon.
The care and compassion for the poor and oppressed was the main work of the deacons.
Thus, Stephen was appointed as a deacon to serve tables and provide for the material needs of the community.
Answer:C. cater for the poor and needy.