Presbyterians believe that the people of God are called to be leaders. This commitment manifests itself in a style of “representative democracy” that is unique in the worldwide church.
Elders (the translation of the Greek word presbuteros) form a group called the Session, which is the governing body of the church. The elders’ primary responsibility is to discern and measure the church’s fidelity to the Word of
God, and to strengthen and nurture its faith and life. Being the spiritual leaders of the church, ruling elders along with teaching elders (the pastor) exercise government, spiritual discernment, and discipline and have responsibilities for the life of a congregation as well as the whole church, including ecumenical relationships.
Deacons as set forth in Scripture participate in a ministry of compassion, witness, and service, sharing the redeeming love of Jesus Christ. While leaders in all ministries of the church, deacon responsibilities focus primarily on congregational care including visitation, outreach, and caring for specific needs of the congregation.
Foundation Board The Foundation is a non-profit entity which holds, manages and directs funs of the Foundation. It is sustained by investment profits, gifts and bequests from the congregation. The board works closely with the Session to insure that Foundation funds are expended wisely and in accordance with the overall vision and mission of First Presbyterian Church.
