“Each one should use whatever gift he has received to serve others, faithfully administering God's grace in its various forms. If anyone speaks, he should do it as one speaking the very words of God. If anyone serves, he should do it with the strength God provides, so that in all things God may be praised. To Him be the glory and the power forever and ever. Amen.” —1 Peter 4:10-11
How do I Nominate?
Use this form to nominate elders and deacons.
Following the Scriptures, the PCA's Book of Church Order explains the importance of these offices for Christ's church.
7-2. The ordinary and perpetual classes of office in the Church are elders and deacons. Within the class of elder are the two orders of teaching elders and ruling elders. The elders jointly have the government and spiritual oversight of the Church, including teaching. Only those elders who are specially gifted, called and trained by God to preach may serve as teaching elders. The office of deacon is not one of rule, but rather of service both to the physical and spiritual needs of the people. In accord with Scripture, these offices are open to men only.
You may find BCO chapter 8 and 9 also of interest.
What are the responsibilities of an elder?
The primary work of the elder is spiritual care. He shepherds the flock of Christ, serves as an example in Christian character, governs as a member of the Session (the elders collectively). He is a man who is able to teach according to sound doctrine. This man should view his role of an elder as a calling and not a hobby, willing to give his time and energy into the spiritual development of members and participation in the wider church. All elders are shepherds and teachers in the area of doctrine and pastoral care in our growing church (1 Tim 3:1-7; Titus 1).
What are the responsibilities of a deacon?
The primary work of the deacon is physical care. They work to alleviate suffering, care for the physical needs of the members, keep the financial books in order, and maintain equipment and the facility. Some candidates will be better at one area or the other, and will be tasked according to their gifts. This man should view his role of a deacon as a calling and not a hobby, willing to give his time and energy into the physical needs of members; where necessary, they will connect with other organizations to meet those needs. All deacons are leaders in mercy ministry issues and delegate to deacon assistants so they can maximize our effectiveness to care for physical needs of a growing church (1 Tim 3:8-12).