HOW DO ELDERS GET ELECTED?

Ruling elders are chosen by the congregation through a prayerful and transparent process.

Here’s how it works:

1. A nominating committee is elected by the congregation.
2. This committee reflects the diversity of the church and listens carefully for whom God may be calling to serve.
3. The committee prays, discerns, and invites nominees.
4. Potential elders are approached to talk about the role, the commitment involved, and their sense of call.
5. Nominees are presented to the congregation.
6. At a congregational meeting, members may also make nominations from the floor.
7. The congregation votes.
8. Elders are elected by a majority vote of members present and voting.
9. New elders are prepared and examined.
10. Before beginning service, those elected participate in a period of learning and reflection and are examined by the Session regarding their faith, understanding of Presbyterian leadership, and readiness to serve.
11. Elders are ordained and installed during worship.
12. This public act affirms both God’s call and the congregation’s trust.

Elders serve for limited terms, ensuring shared leadership and ongoing opportunities for new voices—while remaining elders for life through ordination.