The Nominating Committee needs your help in suggesting persons whom they may consider as nominees for elders and deacons.  As you reflect on persons whom you believe would serve well in these offices please consider the following characteristics for church officers that are demonstrated through:

1. Christian Living in Daily Life
Evidence of grace and compassion in life within the family at work and in the world.
Evidence of maturity and effectiveness of ministry in the world.

2. Commitment to the Church
Regular worship attendance
Participation in other church activities
Offices previously or currently held
Financial support of the church.

3. Personal Characteristics
Leadership ability
Cooperativeness
Willingness to learn
Readiness to listen
Ability and willingness to express own ideas
Maturity of Judgment
Availability to regularly attend monthly
Session or Deacon meetings and assigned committee meetings
Ability to follow through on assignments    


Ruling Elders: The Ministry of Discernment and Governance
Congregations should elect persons of wisdom and maturity of faith, having demonstrated skills in leadership and being compassionate in spirit.  Ruling elders are so named not because they “lord it over” the congregation (Matthew 20:25), but because they are chosen by the congregation to discern and measure its fidelity to the Word of God, and to strengthen and nurture its faith and life.    (Book of Order G-2.0301)

Deacons:  The Ministry of Compassion and Service
The ministry of Deacon as set forth in Scripture is in the redeeming love of Jesus Christ for the poor, the hungry, the sick, the lost, the friendless, the oppressed, those burdened by unjust policies, or structures, or anyone in distress.  Persons of spiritual character, hones repute, exemplary lives, brotherly and sisterly love, sincere compassion, and sound judgment, should be chosen for this ministry.    (Book of Order G-2.0201)