(Prepared by the Peace River Presbytery)
DUTIES OF COMMISSIONERS
● Prepare! The pastor will send an email to all elders on Session giving a summary of the business to be conducted at the coming presbytery meeting. Read this, but also obtain a full presbytery packet (check presbytery’s web page, or call the church office for a copy).
● Sign up for a breakout group (if applicable)
● Get a lunch ticket
● Listen to presentations made
● Feel free to ask questions publicly (There are no “dumb” questions!)
● Vote YOUR conscience
● Avoid talking during presentations at meeting
● Report to your session or congregation
HOW TO SPEAK OUT AT PRESBYTERY MEETINGS
● Stand and wait for the moderator to recognize you.
● Say your name and the church you represent
● Say, “I stand to speak in favor/opposition of the motion” and then say why, or say, “I stand to ask a question for information” and then ask your question.
● Be brief!
WHAT DOES PRESBYTERY DO?
● Connects and supports local congregations to advance Christ’s mission
● Interprets mission of Synod of South Atlantic and General Assembly
● Provides pastoral care of churches and members
● Provides for mission, resources, guidance, and government of churches in such areas as leadership development, church officer training, worship, mission priorities, nurture, witness, budgets, personnel policies, and stewardship
● Assists churches in calling a new pastor
● Assists churches in the interim period between ministers
● Ordains ministers, and approves the call for certified Christian educators
● Assists those preparing for ministry
● Coordinates resources for some of the “larger missions” such as Beth-El, Misión Peniel, Campus Ministry, Cedarkirk, Guatemala Partnerships, Presbyterian Homes and Housing
● Elects commissioners to Synod and General Assembly
● Votes on overtures to Synod and General Assembly
● Votes on amendments from Synod and General Assembly
● Establishes new churches
● Assists in church redevelopment
● Uses committees to accomplish its work
