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Session Leadership

Session Board

  • Mary Beth Anton - Moderator
  • Anita Thompson - Clerk of Session
  • Larry Myers
  • Denny Williams
  • Janette Miller
  • Mary Neff
  • Becky Thomas
  • Mike Zavada
The Session Board of First Presbyterian Church

Ruling Elders - THE MINISTRY OF DISCERNMENT AND GOVERNANCE

The Book Of Order (PCUSA) (G- 2.0301) As there were in Old Testament times elders for the government of the people, so the New Testament church provided persons with particular gifts to share in discernment of God’s Spirit and governance of God’s people. Accordingly, 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 (Matt. 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. (W-2.0303) Ruling elders are called to nurture the common life of the people of God through their gifts of discernment and governance. They should also cultivate an ability to teach the Word when called upon to do so. When appropriately prepared and commissioned by the presbytery, ruling elders may proclaim the Word and administer the Sacraments in a particular congregation (G-2.1001). In a particular congregation, ruling elders shall provide for the church’s worship and encourage the people’s participation.

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