Each local Presbyterian Church is governed by two groups of people; the Session and the Deacons. The body of elders, elected by a congregation to govern that congregation, is called a session. The session is the smallest, most local governing body. Their primary charge is to discover and represent the will of Christ as they govern. Presbyterian elders are also ordained. Through ordination they are officially set apart for service. They retain their ordination beyond their term in office. Ministers who serve the congregation are also part of the session. Together they exercise leadership, government, and discipline. They have responsibilities for the life of the local church as well as the church at large, including ecumenical relationships. (Book of Order, G-10.0102). Class of 2019 – Bob Enthrop, Roy Hayes, Lynn Karnes Class of 2020 – Wayne Beavers, Deb Prince Class of 2021 – Robert Kurtz, Jim Bloodhart, Mike Hunter When elected as commissioners to higher governing bodies, elders participate and vote with the same authority as ministers of the Word and Sacrament, and they are eligible for any office (Book of Order, G-6.0302). The other governing bodies are presbyteries, which are composed of several churches; synods, which are composed of several presbyteries; and the General Assembly, which represents the entire denomination. Elders and ministers who serve on these governing bodies are also called presbyters. Presbyteries and synods are also collectively referred to as mid councils.
The role of church deacons is “to minister to those who are in need, to the sick, to the friendless, and to any who may be in distress both within and beyond the community of faith.” The Deacons of First Presbyterian have initiated a new ministry to make sure that all members and friends of the congregation receive regular contact from our church. Each Deacon has been assigned a "flock" of families and individuals. These Shepherds will contact the members of their flocks regularly to make sure their connection to our congregation remains vital and strong.
Look forward to hearing from your Shepherd soon! Class of 2019 – Mary Lou Glass, Rebecca Johnson, Roberta Press, Lucy Tucker, Betty Young Class of 2020 – T.K. Cully, Tracie Edwards, Margo Fullinwider, Martha Mayer, Lorrie Miller Class of 2021 – Stacye Hunter, Ann Ruback, Connie Wolf, Bob Carroll
Members are encouraged to attend worship regularly; support the church financially, participate in fellowship opportunities of the church, serve the church in invited or chosen ministries, engage in opportunities for spiritual growth, and invite other people to the church.
FELLOWSHIP COMMITTEE - Lynn Karnes, Deb Prince The First Presbyterian Church organizes and implements an entertaining, nurturing variety of fellowship activities.
Bereavement meals
Coffee & Cookies after worship on Sundays
Congregational Luncheons
Refreshments for special activities
CHRISTIAN EDUCATION COMMITTEE - John Guthrie
WORSHIP COMMITTEE - Bob Entrop, Wayne Beavers
MISSION COMMITTEE - Margo Fullinwider
EVANGELISM COMMITTEE - Deb Prince, Bob Entrop
CHURCH MANAGEMENT COMMITTEE - Jim Bloodhart, Lynn Karnes, Roy Hayes The Church Management Committee under the direction of the Session oversees the use, maintenance, and care of church property; legal procedures, fiscal management, acquisition and disposition of properties, insurance, and investments.