Although the Christian church year officially begins in Advent – the four Sundays leading up to Christmas – practically, it begins for us at the beginning of September, after the summer holidays, when the church begins the next year's activities. Preparation for that task belongs to the elders in each local congregation. They hold the congregation to its vision and purpose. They oversee everything that takes place in the local church.
My theme for my moderatorial year is the health and well-being of the local church. Although our regional, national and international connections are important, there is in fact no church apart from the local church. The local church is the operations centre of Jesus Christ's building and re-building work in the world. What makes for a healthy church? Christian A. Schwarz speaks of the importance of empowering leadership, gift-oriented ministries, passionate spirituality, functional structures, inspiring worship services, lively study and community-oriented small groups, need-oriented evangelism, and loving relationships as being essential keys to a church's well-being.
I'm convinced we often underestimate the power of the local team of elders in developing appropriate strategies and excellent examples for ministry and mission in each of our churches. As every Presbyterian knows, eldership is the way a Presbyterian church is governed. Elders are the people's representatives. There ought to be all kinds of ages and gifts represented on each team of elders. Some time ago, The Presbyterian Church in Canada agreed the only requirements for elders were biblical: “Elders ought to be an example to the believers in speech and conduct, in love, in faith, in purity” (1 Tim. 1:12). Some elders will be more gifted administratively, some pastorally. Some will be innovative and change-oriented, some will be good at carrying out what is planned. Some will be evangelical, others will be socially concerned. Any congregation will need all the gifts it can muster.
When I asked my session what gifts elders needed to possess, I received the following: spiritual maturity, ability to use the Bible wisely, a sense of purpose for themselves and their church, a willingness to get to know and serve the people, integrity, empathy and grace, as well as some knowledge of the Book of Forms, and the ability to work well in a team, and to uphold the decisions of the majority.
We're finding we need to educate our elders and elders-elect. So we've instituted an elder orientation course for those who are elders and for those who may be considering eldership. What are some key things elders need to know? The love and saving grace of God, the purpose and mission of the church, the statements and rules of our faith, the responsibilities of eldership, how a session meeting works, how a presbytery works and how to communicate with encouragement.
When I asked what a session looks for in its minister as leader of the team, I obtained the following helpful responses: a heart for serving God, family, and congregation; an ability to interpret and teach the Word of God; spiritual leadership; having the ability to walk a fine line between moving a meeting along, while ensuring that all members are heard. Elders have told me they are frustrated by petty bickering, the narrow, contrary view, or when we don't listen carefully to each other. We can all learn more about teambuilding. At Calvin Church, we have found it to be helpful to remind ourselves that treating each other with grace, forgiveness and respect is one of our core values.
I find my elders appreciate an opportunity to reflect on the opening Bible study of each meeting by responding to a related question that gives them permission to share. They also enjoy our annual retreat, and want more social gatherings. We need to celebrate our achievements.
High among the reasons I was willing to be considered as a candidate for the position of moderator of our church is the encouragement and support of my elders. They are aware of the responsibilities involved. Even now they help out by leading in the worship services, and in their daily prayers. I am grateful for them and I pray for them.
May your congregation's eldership team grow in its appreciation of one another and contribute more and more to the dynamism of your church!
