Becoming an Elder, Deacon & Deaconess at Redeemer
Five Categories of Qualifications for Elders, Deacons, & Deaconesses
Calling: Calling is both inward and outward. A nominee should possess both an inward and outward calling. The inward calling is manifest by a nominee’s own desire to serve the church, as well as a belief that one has the gifts necessary to serve in the position. The outward calling comes as others in our community recognize a nominee as possessing the gifts and graces necessary for the task.
Character: Though no leader can expect to be perfect, he or she must be exemplary, modeling in a consistent way the character of Christ and displaying the Fruit of the Spirit. Romans 16:1, 3, 1 Timothy 3 & 5, Titus 1:5-9, Titus 1:5-9, and Galatians 5:22-26 offer a useful summary of the qualifications.
Competency: calls Elders, Deacons and Deaconesses to serve in distinct and varying ways. A nominee should evidence the inclination and ability to fulfill that particular biblical office or role.
Elder nominees should be men who are mature followers of Jesus. Their main responsibilities fall under two categories: Shepherding and Governance. They should be visionary leaders – not “micro-managers” – who can lead by implementing vision, making key decisions, and oversee the church. They need to know the Bible and be able to teach the Bible to others. They should have a history of being sought out for spiritual guidance. They will lead a Shepherding Team of Deacons and Deaconesses to care for the spiritual and physical needs of Redeemer’s members.
Deacon and Deaconess nominees should be of good repute, full of the Spirit and of wisdom. They serve the church in a ministry support role. They should exhibit a strong willingness – even eagerness – to serve others, a clear concern for the poor and vulnerable, demonstrated ability to solve practical problems, and a readiness to get their hands dirty. They will be part of a Ministry Care Team lead by an Elder which works to care for the spiritual and physical needs of Redeemer’s members. Note: Deaconesses serve in the above areas, alongside Deacons, but have a particular focus of serving the women of the church.
Compatibility: Nominees should be "team players" who wholeheartedly embrace the vision and philosophy of ministry of Redeemer. This should already be evident through regular worship, church life participation, sacrificial giving (tithing as a minimum guideline) and service to the congregation.
Comprehension: Nominees need to understand and accept Redeemer’s convictions about theology, worship, sacraments, and church government. This involves commitment to the Bible’s authority, to Presbyterian Church government and to the Westminster Confession of Faith and Catechisms (We are looking for people who are in agreement with the key tenets of our theology and are open to variations on minor issues.)
