THE WORK OF THE ELDER

WHAT REQUIREMENTS ARE THERE FOR SERVING ON THE SESSION?
Our Book of Order says that the elders must:
§ be persons of faith
§ have dedication
§ show good judgment
§ live a manner of life that demonstrates the Christian Gospel to all
§ live either in fidelity within the covenant of marriage between a man and a woman, or chastity in singleness. Persons refusing to repent of any self-acknowledged practice which the confessions call sin shall not be ordained and/or installed as deacons, elders, or ministers of the Word and Sacrament.

The Book of Order says the duties of the elders are to:
§ strengthen and nurture the faith and life of the congregation
§ encourage the people in worship and service of God
§ equip and renew the people for their tasks within the Church
§ equip and renew the people for their mission in the world
§ visit and comfort and care for the people
§ give specific attention to the poor, the sick, the lonely, and those who are oppressed
§ inform the pastor of those people needing visits, attention, or care
§ inform the pastor of those structures in the church needing attention
§ cultivate an ability to teach the Bible

The Book of Order indicates that an elder may also serve the Session by
§ serving as a Clerk of Session
§ serving as a voting Commissioner to the Presbytery


An elder is ordained for life, but installed onto the Session for a specific term of up to three years. An elder who is no longer serving on the Session is still an elder, and is properly referred to as “an elder in reserve.” Whether on the Session or not, every elder remains responsible to serving as a spiritual leader of the church.