Job Description for Some, Prayer Request for All

Bishop Jonathan D. Keaton addressed our Conference’s new Elders in Full Connection with these traditional words —-

An elder 

is called to share in the ministry of Christ

and of the whole church:

to preach and teach the Word of God

and faithfully administer the sacraments

of Holy Baptism and Holy Communion;

to lead the people of God in worship and prayer;

to lead persons to faith in Jesus Christ;

to exercise pastoral supervision,

order the life of the congregation,

counsel the troubled,

and declare the forgiveness of the sin;

to lead the people of God 

in obedience to Christ’s mission in the world;

to seek justice, peace, and freedom for all people;

and to take a responsible place

in the government of the Church

and in service in and to the community.

These are the duties of an elder.

To my Sister and Brother Clergy, I say: wow…laity with whom I’ve shared this have expressed a feeling of being overwhelmed. And yet this is our calling. Let’s keep each other in prayer.

To my Sister and Brother Laity, I say: wow…you’re right, this really is daunting and even overwhelming. Pray for us. Work with us. And we’ll be grateful.