The pressures of clerical life often weigh on religious leaders. In the Christian faith the responsibility of the religious congregation falls on the shoulders of pastors, elders and deacons. Elders and deacons assist pastors in the work of the church. In the Seventh-day Adventist Church, deacons play an active role which allows the pastor freedom to take care of pressing matters in the congregation. Deacons are elected and ordained to their position in the church, as are the church elders.