Our Leaders
Jesus Christ is the Head of the Church and has established the offices of Elder and Deacon to provide spiritual leadership and servant ministry within His Church
(Acts 6; 1 Timothy 3; Titus 1).
These are ordained offices, not honorary positions or committee assignments.Those elected are examined, trained, ordained, and installed by the Session, promising to uphold Scripture, the Essential Tenets and polity of ECO, and the mission of Jesus Christ.
Learn more about Elders and Deacons
Elders
Shepherding the Church
Purpose Elders are the spiritual shepherds and overseers of the congregation. Together with the pastors, they provide spiritual leadership, guard the church's mission and doctrine, and ensure that FPC faithfully pursues God's vision.
Primary Responsibilities:
Provide spiritual leadership through the Session.
Pray for and discern God's direction for the church.
Shepherd an assigned group of covenant partners, helping ensure they are known, fed, led, and protected.
Oversee the church's mission, ministries, finances, and strategic direction.
Encourage and support the pastors.
Serve Communion and provide pastoral care.
Lead by Christlike example in worship, discipleship, generosity, service, and mission.
Biblical Qualifications Nominees should demonstrate the qualities found in 1 Timothy 3:1–7, Titus 1:5–9 and 1 Peter 5:1–4, including:
Spiritual maturity
Humility and integrity
Sound doctrine
Faithfulness at home and in relationships
Good reputation
Servant leadership
Expected Commitment
Approximately 10 hours per month, including:
Monthly Session meeting
Shepherding assigned covenant partners
Worship, Communion, prayer, training, and leadership responsibilities
Additional meetings as needed
About the Nominating Process:
For our covenant partners: As you pray about nominations, look for mature, actively engaged covenant partners whose lives already demonstrate Christlike character, spiritual maturity, faithful service, and leadership. Nomination should recognize God's evident calling, not simply encourage greater involvement. A nomination begins a prayerful discernment process. It does not guarantee election or ordination. Next Steps: Individuals who are nominated may be invited to complete an application, participate in leadership training, meet with the Session, and complete a discernment process before being recommended to the congregation for election and ordination.