The term “Presbyterian” comes from the New Testament Greek word, presbyteros which means “elder.” As a Presbyterian church, we are governed by elders who are elected from the congregation to shepherd the church (1 Timothy 3:1-7, Titus 1:5-9). The Scriptures distinguish between teaching elders (or pastors) who make their living from full-time gospel ministry (1 Corinthians 9:13-14, 1 Timothy 5:17), and ruling elders who minister to the congregation as volunteers. Teaching elders and ruling elders form the Session and collectively govern the church.

While elders are entrusted with the spiritual care of the congregation, deacons are ordained to minister to the church’s physical needs (1 Timothy 3:8-13).  With their help, the elders are able to keep prayer and the ministry of the Word their primary focus among the flock (Acts 6:3-4).