This Sunday, the church will ordain and install our new ruling elders and deacons. Every year we elect officers to three-year terms of service, but rarely do we talk\n\nFirst, the word “ordain.” It means more than “appoint” or “induct.” They are not joining a club or getting a letterman's jacket. “Presbyterians have understood ordination to be like a three-legged stool. First, the call comes from God; second, the individual hears that call; and third, a definable church group sees in the individual ministerial potential.” (Dee H. Wade, 2015)\n\nIt’s also important to note that within the governance of the PCUSA, the ministries of teaching elders, ruling elders, and deacons are regarded as equals. As we have spent time discovering who we are as a church, our strengths and values, and the PNC (Pastor Nominating Committee) searches for our new called teaching elder (head pastor), the ruling elders and deacons will play a pivotal role in leading this church in the coming months and years.\n\nNow, the word “install;” what does that mean? The quote that came to my mind is from ...
RB Community adheres to the Biblical model of governance through the offices of Elder, Deacon and Pastor. Deacons, together with Ministers of Word and Sacrament, manage the ministries of care for our congregation and larger community. Both men and women are eligible to serve as Deacons, serving three year terms after confirmation by congregational vote. Our current number about 30, are ordained for life, but serve limited terms.
The main ministries of our Diaconate (board of Deacons) include visitation, memorials, weddings, Stephen Ministry, support groups, prayer groups, the flower guild, Parish Nurses, and member assistance. The Deacons are called to be the leaders who represent the hands and feet of Christ, complementing the Elders in their work related to organizational leadership.
Our Deacons adhere to the Presbyterian Church USA Book of Order, Book of Confessions, and our own Deacon Covenant of Behavior.
