Church Leadership

Session

The group of active ruling elders, elected by the congregation, who make decisions for the running of the local church and serve as spiritual leaders of the congregation. In some denominations this group is called the church council. The session has responsibility and power to: provide that the Word of God be preached and heard, primarily through worship; authorize the celebration of the sacraments; receive and dismiss members; provide for the education, ordination, mission, and care of members; oversee financial stewardship and church property; and maintain discipline.

Deacons

Deacons are members who feel a calling to the ministry of visitation and support for members of the congregation. They are elected and ordained officers of First Presbyterian Church (PCUSA).

Typically, a Deacon is assigned one, two, or three individuals or families to connect with in friendship and humility as a good listener and liaison to the church.

Deacons may schedule in-person visits, make phone calls, send cards, and remember those individuals in prayer.

Deacons meet once a month. The meetings include an opening reflection and prayer, confidential updates regarding people on the care and prayer list, and training or clarifying best practices for meaningful and safe visits. Deacons report the number of cards, visits, calls made, and the times that communion was distributed for inclusion in Session’s report to Presbytery.

The Deacons take turns being Deacon of the Month. That Deacon assumes extra responsibility for sending cards, being at worship services and setting up and serving communion. The Deacons get to know one another as friends. Before Advent begins, the Deacons gather to decorate the church for Christmas and meet again at the end of the Christmas season to take the decorations down and pack them away. Being a Deacon is an opportunity to deepen friendships and compassion within the church.

The Deacons may assist an individual or family through the Compassion Fund. This fund is not a part of the church budget but is supported by donations from church members and fund raisers sponsored by the Deacons.

These funds are for members or those with an established relationship with First Presbyterian Church in a time of emergency or another situation when it is appropriate to extend compassion and help. Generally, assistance is limited to once year.

An individual or family seeking assistance should make a request to the church office or Co-Moderators of the Deacons.