VIEW FROM THE MANSE 2.0

 In the book of order (an instructional manual of sorts for congregations in the Evangelical Presbyterian Church), Ruling Elders are called “to watch over the spiritual welfare of [the] congregation.” As a session, we have been talking about how we can do this better. One of the options that has worked well in other churches is to assign ministries of the church to an elder. This would lead to each ministry being checked in on regularly to see what people serving in that ministry need. If more volunteers were needed, this elder would help the leadership recruit for that ministry. If the ministry needed more funds, this elder would communicate that need to the rest of the session. If you were serving in that ministry and you needed direction or care, you would come to this elder first, knowing that they were familiar with your ministry and were committed to helping you. If you have suggestions about how these ministries can improve, even if you are not part of the ministry, this is the elder to go to.


Here is how we are currently assigning elders:

Deacons- Tanya MacNeil

Trustees- Jereme Randles

Worship- Brian Wells

Greeters/Fellowship- Wes Clark

Prayer (grief prayer, caretakers’ prayer, etc) - Bob Black

Media- Dean McWhorter

Staff- Gabe Johnson

Food pantry- Ray Jenks

Young Life- Karen Lohret

Education ministries support (Sunday school, Children’s church, and Bible study teachers)- Bryan Fitzgerald and Bob Black


Every elder is elected for a 3 year term and is often asked to serve a second term, so assignments will change as elders cycle on and off. This does not mean that you cannot talk to another elder. Although, if you are part of a ministry and your complaint is connected to your ministry and you go to talk with another elder, that elder will direct you to the elder who has oversight over your ministry. 

This does not mean that you have to be in a ministry to receive pastoral care. Each of us is committed to caring for, praying for, and serving the entire body. But, if you would like to be a part of one of these ministries, now you know who to talk to. 

This organization flows from our desire to make disciples who make a difference. We want to grow up into Christ together. We want the fruit of the Spirit to flourish in each of our lives. We want Jesus to be glorified. Perhaps, this small organizational shift will aid us in that endeavor. 

Bryan Fitzgerald, Pastor (bryan@argylepresbyterian.org)


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