The matter of Elders in the church has been raised on several occasions in the past. The need to support the Pastor more adequately; the need for more planning and sharing of counselling, visitation, outreach by a team dedicated to the task and free from administrative matters of the Deacons' Court; and the need to have visionaries, giving positive planning and prayer support to the Pastor on a regular basis has been felt vital. Looking at the matter of elders has led to reviewing the whole matter of leadership.
Reasons
A Deacons' Court - 16 when all present - appears to be too large to do adequate justice to practical, administrative and forward planning work. Dealing with all these has produced too lengthy meetings.
Changed structures in other churches have helped overall growth and development.
Scriptural teaching and instruction showing both the roles of elders and deacons as separate functions.
Need to have a small team to stand in close support of the pastor and help set goals in visitation, outreach, home groups and general church growth in which they can share.
Proposals For Discussion
An Elders' Court - comprised of the Pastor, other pastors, the Church Secretary and four elected elders be set up; to meet frequently and have responsibility for worship, visitation, counselling, home groups and outreach, and other matters as will be determined.
A Deacons' Court - of 9 be set up with Deacons elected to specific portfolios, to meet at least bimonthly and be responsible for basic administration and organisational matters. Senior Pastor will be ex-officio and each deacon will be required to set up a committee of 4-5 church members to administer the portfolio. The specific portfolios will be Administration (Secretary). Finance (Treasurer), Sunday School, Brigades and Youth, Property, Practical Care, Public Questions, Missionary Organisation and Aged Concern Organisation, Fellowship.
A Church Council/Board Meeting at least every two months. This will consist of the Elders and Deacons where related business is discussed and recommendations prepared for Members' Meetings. Fellowships connected with the Church will also send representatives.
Members' Meetings will be held at least four times a year plus an Annual Meeting in October. The Members' Meeting must remain the final decision making group in the Church.
Constitution - A new Constitution will need to be adopted to allow these changes. It is suggested the current one be abandoned, and a new one adopted.
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