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ORDER OF ELDERS

About the Order

“Within the people of God, other persons are called to the ministry of elder. The elders carry on the historic work of the presbyteros in the life of the church. Beginning in some of the very early Christian communities, the presbyteros assisted the bishop in leading the gathered community in the celebration of sacraments and guidance and care of the communal life. The ministry of elder exemplifies and leads the Church in service to God in the world, in remembering and celebrating the gifts of God and live faithfully in response to God’s grace.”

¶305 The Book of Discipline of
The United Methodist Church

The Purpose of the Order

The specific and limited function of the order is to:

• provide for regular gatherings of Ordained Elders for continuing formation in relationship to Jesus Christ through such experiences as Bible study, study of issues facing the church and society, and theological exploration in vocational identity and leadership.
• assist in plans for individual study and retreat experiences.
• develop a bond of unity and common commitment to the mission and ministry of The United Methodist Church and the annual conference.
• enable the creation of relationships that allow mutual support and trust.
• hold accountable all members of the order in the fulfilling of these purposes.

All of the functions of the Order shall be fulfilled in cooperation and coordination with the Board of Ministry and do not replace the normal supervisory processes, the processes of evaluation for ordained ministers, or the responsibilities of the Board of Ministry, the cabinet, or the clergy session.

¶307 The Book of Discipline of The United Methodist Church