Each December consistory begins to receive names to consider
as nominees for the offices of elder and deacon. Each year a trickle of names
are suggested. I think this is not a reflection of the quality of members as it
is a general lack of knowledge of Reformed Church governance. It’s my hope this
will help educate, inform and possibly inspire some to be nominated for an
office.
Each congregation is governed by a consistory. Imagine how a
stool must have three legs for it to function. Likewise, consistory must have
three “legs” for it to function as a consistory. These “legs” are called offices. The offices are elder, deacon
and minister. Together the three offices serve and supervise the local church
as representatives of the congregation. The consistory also represents Christ
to the congregation. The consistory has a dual role. It is both pastoral and
prophetic. It serves the congregation with care and compassion while at the
same time challenging the congregation.
The Book of Church Order defines each office as such:
The Office of Minster
of Word and Sacrament serves as pastor and teacher of the congregation to
build up and equip the whole church for its ministry in the world.
The Office of the
Elder is responsible for all matters relating to the welfare and good order
of the church. They provide oversight of the conduct of the membership and seek
to bring that conduct into conformity with the Word of God.
The Office of the
Deacon is one of servanthood and service representing Christ through the
action of the Holy Spirit. Deacons are to lead the members in ministries of
mercy, service and outreach.
The consistory receives names suggested by the congregation.
The consistory serving as the nomination committee discerns and prayerfully
considers each name for the offices of elder and deacon. At the congregational
meeting held after worship on the first Sunday in February, the consistory
presents a single-slate of nominees upon which the memberships votes. Nominees
are elected each year by the congregation to serve a three-year term.
Later in February, those elected are ordained and installed
into their respective office. The first meeting of the new term begins in
March. Consistory at Ponds Reformed Church meets on the second Monday of each
month with the exception being July and August. For those months there is one
meeting.
At Ponds Reformed Church consistory consists of nine members
plus the minister. Based on the needs of the church there may be five elders
and four deacons or vice versa. Usually, three members of consistory rotate off
each year. The minister serves as president of the consistory but does not vote
unless there is a tie. I have never cast a deciding vote because I believe it
is more important to build consensus and maintain unity. If a motion comes
before consistory leaving them equally divided then I will recognize consistory
is not ready to make a decision. More
time is required to listen, discern and engage in conversation.
That’s consistory. Next blog I’ll address how important
matters make it to consistory and decisions are made.
