Elders

In the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) (PCUSA), elders are called Ruling Elders and serve as spiritual leaders of the congregation. They are elected by the members of the church and ordained to serve on the Session, the governing body of the local church. Elders typically serve a three-year term, rotating off in classes to provide both continuity and fresh leadership. They are nominated through a prayerful discernment process, elected by the congregation, and ordained (or installed, if previously ordained) during a worship service. Ruling Elders work alongside the pastor — whether a Teaching Elder (Minister of Word and Sacrament) or a Commissioned Ruling Elder — to provide spiritual oversight and leadership. Together, they discern vision, guide mission and ministry, oversee finances and property, and care for the congregation.

In addition to serving on Session, elders also lead and serve through various committees of the church, such as Worship, Finance, Buildings & Grounds, Christian Education, Mission & Outreach, and Congregational Care. These committees help carry out the day-to-day ministry and mission of the church, ensuring that decisions made by Session are thoughtfully implemented and that members have meaningful opportunities to serve. Above all, the role of an elder is one of faithful service — leading with prayer, wisdom, and a heart for Christ’s church.