Leadership
Session
The Book of Order for the Presbyterian Church USA provides, “The session shall have responsibility for governing the congregation and guiding its witness to the sovereign activity of God in the world, so that the congregation is and becomes a community of faith, hope, love, and witness.”
Under our bylaws, the Session is composed of 7 Ruling Elders.
Three are elected annually by the congregation for three-year terms, so there are three staggered classes. The Pastor is also a member and presides as Moderator.
The Session has established several committees to help with this primary responsibility of “governing,”and to reach our Vision. Each member of Session is usually a chair of at least one such committee composed of other officers and members from the congregation. These include Finance, Christian Education, Worship, Membership, Stewardship, Mission, Nominations, Personnel, Communications, and ad hoc committees from time to time.
Deacons
Deacons – literally a person who serves food to other people – a servant of the Lord
The ministry of Deacon as set forth in Scripture is one of compassion, witness, service, sharing in the love of Jesus Christ for the poor, the hungry, the sick, the lost, the friendless, and anyone in distress. It can be a challenging ministry, but the rewards are so great.
Our Church has a small group of dedicated individuals who have accepted the challenge and want to provide help to those in need. The Deacons provide flowers and cards to those who could use some encouragement; they visit those who need someone to talk with or listen to their concerns. Deacons offer transportation to those who are no longer able to drive and they accompany our pastor on visits and assist with the communion service for those who can not attend church.
Staff
Session is also responsible for receiving members, providing for the celebration of the Lord’s Supper, supplying commissioners and annual statistics to Presbytery, electing a Treasurer, and adopting an annual budget. It meets monthly.
Session usually holds an annual retreat to maintain perspective on these awesome responsibilities.
Trustees
Trustees function as Christian stewards of property God has entrusted to the congregation. This includes supervising and maintaining the physical property of the congregations so that the ministries of the congregation can be effective and all legal requirements related to the property are satisfied. Not only does this include the physical church itself, but also includes the Share House and Manse.
During the year the trustees ensure the plants and shrubs are cared for in the Spring, the flowers are watered in the Summer, the leaves are cleaned up in the Fall, and the snow is removed during the winter. If a ministry needs tables and chairs arranged, the trustees accomplish the task. Trustees make sure the heating, lighting, and air conditioning are working. They also oversee the cleaning of the church, computer system updates, telephone, and insurance protection.
The Trustees oversee physical investments and work with the Session and Finance Committee to develop a sustainable church budget.