Elders

Because of our understanding of leadership the role and function of a church’s non-minister leaders, or ‘leader-leaders’ is very important. Variously called elders, deacons, board members, leadership team members or Council members, these people provide valuable support to the church’s minister/s.A valuable role for elders is to partner with the minister/s to equip others for the work of the ministry through, for example, the five-fold ministry pattern of Ephesians 4:11-16.

If you are one of these people you are partners with the minister/s in all that God is calling your church to do. This starts with prayer and a shared discernment of what this ministry looks like together. Your leadership is primarily a spiritual leadership, and usually that involves moving people on to God’s agenda.

You will also participate in designing vision and mission statements and strategic frameworks for the church’s ministry and mission, as well as providing or delegating financial accountability. Good governance and decision-making requires a high-quality framework for these conversations and the leadership expressed through them. Constitutions or Rules of Procedure and Board Charters can be helpful building blocks.

We can help resource you for the important role you have in your church.

‘Rethinking Eldership’ is a resource available through our shop.