Mission Statement: To be an example of the Character of Christ demonstrating the Word of God in our daily lives and to provide leadership to facilitate the spiritual maturity of the church.
According to Acts 20:28, elders are called, or appointed by the Holy Spirit. When a local church elects and ordains an elder they are simply recognizing and confirming the Spirit's call.
Along with church pastors, elders have a tremendous responsibility to their congregations. To elders, Paul says, "Keep watch over yourselves and all the flock of which the Holy Spirit has made you overseers. Be shepherds of the church of God, which he bought with his own blood."—Acts 20:28 (NIV).
Scripture describes an elder as someone who has:
1. Knowledge, experience, and wisdom that church members can draw from for guidance and spiritual support (Acts 15:2, 6; 16:4).
2. The ability and will to shepherd and care for the body of believers (Acts 20:28-31; Hebrews 13:17).
3. A willingness and ability to teach and instruct others in spiritual matters (I Timothy 3:2; Hebrews 13:7; I Timothy 5:17; Acts 20:30).
4. The ability and will to equip and teach members how to share their Christian faith (Ephesians 4:11-13).
5. A positive example and influence among the church body and community (I Peter 5:3; Hebrews 13:7).
