Meet Our Elders
The governing body of a Presbyterian congregation is called a "session" and is composed of active members who have been elected as "elders" to lead the congregation in worship, ministry and service.
As the Presbyterian Book of Order makes clear, the term "elder" is a biblical term. In the Old Testament elders were literally older men selected to rule the people of God (see Exodus 3:16; 12:21; 24:1) They sat in judgment in the gates of the city in public assembly (Deuteronomy 25:7; 2 Chronicles 32:6; Proverbs 31:23; Isaiah 13:2). By their means, justice was established (Amos 5:5) and commerce was conducted. In the New Testament the Greek word for elder (presbuteros) designated leaders chosen to govern congregations that had been instituted by apostles (Acts 14:23; Titus 1:5; Acts 20:17: 1 Timothy 4:14; 2 John 1; 3 John 1).
While we no longer restrict leadership to older men, mature wisdom is expected. 'Elders should be persons of faith, dedication, and good judgment. Their manner of life should be a demonstration of the Christian gospel, both within the church and world' (G-6.0303). Both women and men are equally qualified to serve and in the Presbyterian Church (USA) since 1972 age and sex restrictions are prohibited (G-6.0105).
The Chapel's six (6) elders are elected for three (3) year terms on a rotating basis of two (2) elders elected each year. Elders are allowed to serve only two (2) consecutive terms, and then must sit out at least one (1) year before serving again.