“The Church, with its ordinances, officers and courts, is the agency which Christ has ordained for the edification and government of His people, for the propagation of the faith, and for the evangelization of the world.” PCA Book of Church Order 3.5

With this grace and privilege upon their minds, your elders come together each month to exercise their vows as officers of the church, for the sake of God’s people and the evangelization of the world.

The following are just a few highlights of our meeting.

• Earnest Prayer. Scott Phillips reviewed chapters 1-5 in the PCA BCO, which set before us the peculiar nature of the Church and in particular, the Presbyterian church. This inspired earnestness among the Elders to pray about the needs of specific members by name, and for special needs among us, for unbelievers and those estranged from the church, and for various ministry initiatives. “Ask…seek… knock” (Mtt.7:7-11)

•  State of the Church. A robust discussion led by Scott Phillips helped summarize the positive feedback on the recent SOTC meeting Sunday evening: gratitude for God’s work among us, clarity in the way forward (“Rooted to Grow”), and earnest prayer as catalyst… that we might fulfill the vision as “A Community of Transforming Grace in the Historic Reformed Tradition.” “…whoever believes in me will also do the works that I do, and greater works than these will he do.” (Jn.14:12)

• Formed. Scott Phillips described the plan for hosting special teaching events (e.g. Friday nights or a Friday-Saturday) that would help spiritually and practically “Form” Christians on particular theological issues. For example, on September 26 we’ll invite everyone to learn from the Scriptures how we should understand Israel, have confidence in the conversations swirling around us, and maintain a gospel heart toward everyone. “…rooted and built up in him and established in the faith…” (Col.2:7)

• The Sunday Morning Squeeze. It’s no secret – the transition between the end of the early worship service, childcare, and Sunday schools has been an on-going challenge. Several helpful ideas were discussed and a temporary solution was created until the pastoral staff can research and discover how to maximize efficiently both the 8:15 worship service and the 9:30 Sunday schools. “The wisdom from above is first pure, then peaceable, gentle, open to reason, full of mercy and good fruits, impartial and sincere.” (Ja.3:17)