Nominations for Ruling Elders and Deacons

Ruling Elders

According to Scripture, those who bear the office of Elder should be mature believers, led by the Holy Spirit, who exhibit a manner of life that conforms to the biblical description of an officer in Christ’s Church.

·      Ruling Elders should be equipped to teach the Word. Such teaching could happen in a Bible Study, a              Small Group, or various other settings.

·      As Under-Shepherds, they should visit the sick, the bereaved, the lonely, the aged, the shut-in, and all            those who have a pastoral need.

·      Responsibilities also include discipleship of the congregation, pursuing inactive members, encouraging          new members in spiritual development, and otherwise showing care for those whom they serve.

·      They should be attentive to themselves and church members, guarding against dangers to the faith and          to dangers to the moral life of believers. They are also responsible to warn, admonish, and reclaim                  those who stray.

Deacons

The office of Deacon as set forth in Scripture is one of compassion, concern for needs, and of serving others. Therefore, the first duty of the Deacon is sympathy and service. Historically, to this office has been given the duty of being the Church’s instrument for the ministry of compassion. It can also include oversight of facilities and determining how resources are used in the life of the church and the support of its members. Deacons should be mature believers, led by the Holy Spirit, and they should exhibit a manner of life that conforms to the biblical description of an officer in Christ’s Church.

Responsibilities of the Diaconate can include oversight of the following:

·      Facilities and management of church property

·      Benevolence and disbursement of help and resources to those in need

·      Finances including maintaining the budget and keeping records

·      Ushers, bulletin distribution, seating the congregation, and preparing the elements for communion

·      All other logistical tasks and concerns so that the elders can concentrate on the teaching and                              shepherding of the church.