1.  The Elders minister to the spiritual growth and development of the members of the congregation.   

     (Paraphrase from Titus, Chap 1)   They must be sensible people, and fair. They must be clean minded and level headed. Their belief in the truth that they have been taught must be strong and steadfast so that they will be able to teach it to others . . .

     (From 1 Peter, Chap 5)   Fellow elders, this is my plea to you: Feed the flock of God; care for it willingly, not grudgingly; not for what you will get out of it but because you are eager to serve the Lord.  Don’t be tyrants, but lead them by your good example, and when the Head Shepherd comes, your reward will be a never-ending share in his glory and honor.

2.  The Elders serve at the Lord’s table during worship services. 

3.  The Elders share in pastoral duties and provide supportive counsel for all members of the clergy and staff with regard to the spiritual life of the congregation.  These activities include:

          a.  Call on members in the hospital and homebound when needed

          b.  Deliver communion as requested during visits above

          c.  Give devotions and prayers when requested at meetings

          d.  Listen to concerns from the congregation and advise other leadership on these matters.

 4.  The Elders shepherd new members who join:

a.  Greet on behalf of the congregation, and introduce to other members

b.  Take photos and gather initial new member data

c.  Provide New Member Packets

d.  Perform an initial home visit (or similar appointment)  to answer questions and complete the administrative and spiritual bond with the congregation.

  The Elders are constituted of twelve members, elected by the congregation to a three-year term (or in special cases to serve out and unexpired term).  One-third are elected each year at an annual congregation meeting. 

 At the end of their term, Elders shall not succeed themselves, but may be elected to another term after an absence of at least one year.

 The chairman of the Elders, or a designated representative, will serve as a voting member at meetings of the General Board.

October 28, 2006

  We the Elders of First Christian Church covenant with God and the congregation to provide:

      -  Spiritual leadership.  All elders will subscribe to the belief that Jesus is the Christ, the Son of the Living God, and our personal Lord and Savior.

-  Humility in service, serving as examples of Christ’s teachings.

-  Frequent prayer for the congregation, staff, and global community.

-  Attentive listening to the needs of each congregant.

  In all chapters of the life of this church, we will attempt to discern our purpose and God’s will for FCC.

  In pursuit of these objectives, I willingly and fully pledge my time, talent, and energy.  I pledge this in full knowledge that I am accountable to God in my service.