Leadership

The duties of the minister of the Word include faithfully and sincerely proclaiming God’s Word to the congregation, administering the sacraments, and leading public prayer on behalf of the entire church. They also involve teaching the children of the church about the doctrine of salvation, visiting members in their homes, and offering comfort to the sick with God’s Word. Additionally, alongside the elders, the minister is called to maintain good order within the church, exercise discipline, and govern it according to the Lord’s commands.

The role of elders involves working alongside the ministers of the Word to oversee Christ’s church, ensuring that every member lives and believes in accordance with the gospel. Elders are tasked with visiting congregation members in their homes to offer comfort, instruction, and admonition from God’s Word. They are to uphold Christian discipline as commanded by Christ, addressing unrepentant unbelief or ungodliness and safeguarding the sacraments from misuse. As stewards of God’s house, elders are responsible for maintaining decency and order within the congregation and caring for Christ’s flock. Additionally, they provide counsel and guidance to ministers and oversee their doctrine and conduct.

The office of deacon is tasked with promoting the ministry of charity within the congregation. Deacons are to identify and understand the needs and challenges within the church community, encouraging members of Christ’s body to practice mercy. They are also responsible for collecting and managing offerings, distributing them in Christ’s name to those in need. Additionally, deacons offer encouragement and comfort through God’s Word to those who receive these expressions of Christ’s love. Through their words and actions, they seek to strengthen the unity and fellowship of the congregation in the Holy Spirit, reflecting the bond shared at the Lord’s table.