The word "Session"
comes from the Greek word "Presbuteros" meaning "elder" or "to
rule." The Presbyterian form of government is a representative government ruled by
elders selected by the congregation. In our Presbyterian form of government, there are two
elected offices: elder and deacon. The Book of Order permits a church, if they so
desire, to have a unified system of government in which there are only elders ruling
through the Session. In October of 1982, Quail Hollow Presbyterian Church voted to use the
unified system and in September of 1983, it went into effect.
As there were in Old Testament times elders for the government of
the people, so the New Testament provided persons with particular gifts to share in
governing and ministry.
Elders are chosen by the
people. Together with ministers of the Word, 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. When elected commissioners to higher governing bodies, elders
participate and vote with the same authority as ministers of the Word, and they are
eligible for any office.
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 in the world.
It is the duty of elders, individually and jointly, to strengthen
and nurture the faith and life of the congregation committed to their charge. Together
with the pastor, they should encourage the people in the worship and service of God, equip
and renew them for their tasks within the church and for the mission in the world, visit
and comfort and care for the people, with special attention to the poor, the sick, the
lonely, and those who are oppressed. They should inform the pastor and Session of those
persons and structures which may need special attention. They should cultivate their
ability to teach the Bible and may be authorized to supply places which are without the
regular ministry of the Word. Those duties which all Christians are bound to perform by
the law of love are especially incumbent upon elders because of their calling to office
and are to be fulfilled by them as official responsibilities.
RECENT SESSION RETREAT PICTURES - January
2006
