As there were in Old Testament times elders for the government of the people, so the New Testament Church provided persons with particular gifts to share in governing and ministry. Elders are chosen by the people. Together with ministers of the Word and Sacrament (Pastors), they exercise leadership, government, and discipline and have responsibilities for the life of a particular church as well as the church at large, including ecumenical relationships. They shall serve faithfully as members of the session. (Book of Order G-6.0301)
Churches in the Presbyterian Church are governed by the Session, a board composed of Elders elected to three year terms by the congregation. At our particular church, the session is comprised of seven elders, with each elder serving on at least one committee.
The Session of First Presbyterian Church
Rev. Chris Deacon – Moderator
Elder Pat Welker – Clerk of Session
Elder Caleb Suydam – Personnel, Christian Education
Elder Chris Evans – Christian Education (chair)
Elder Cozy Hoover – Fellowship/Mission (chair), Worship
Elder Crystal Gomes – Fellowship/Mission, Stewardship/Finance/Memorial
Elder Hubert Schuman – Stewardship/Finance/Memorial (chair), Evangelism
Elder Keith Quin – Worship (chair), Evangelism
Elder Kevin Phillips – Evangelism (chair), Personnel (chair)