Church Leadership

How Leadership Works at Covenant

Covenant Presbyterian Church is led by officers elected by the congregation, in keeping with the New Testament pattern of shared leadership under the authority of Jesus Christ, the head of the Church.

We recognize three offices: Teaching Elders, Ruling Elders, and Deacons. These offices are not positions of status, but callings to serve the church with humility, wisdom, and love.

Teaching Elders and Ruling Elders

Both Teaching Elders and Ruling Elders are elders of the church and share responsibility for its spiritual oversight and governance.

• Teaching Elders (pastors) are set apart to preach and teach the Word, administer the sacraments, and shepherd the congregation through prayer and pastoral care.
• Ruling Elders are elected from among the congregation to serve alongside the pastors in governing the church, guarding its doctrine, and caring for its spiritual life.

Together, Teaching Elders and Ruling Elders form the Session, the governing body of the local church. Decisions are made collectively, reflecting our conviction that Christ rules His church through a plurality of elders rather than through a single individual.

Deacons

Deacons are elected by the congregation to lead the church’s ministries of compassion, service, and practical care.

Deacons focus especially on caring for those in need, extending mercy, and supporting the life of the church through acts of service. Their work allows the elders to focus on prayer, teaching, and spiritual oversight, while ensuring that the church remains attentive to the tangible needs of its members and neighbors.

A Connectional Church

As part of the Evangelical Presbyterian Church, Covenant is a connectional church. Our elders participate not only in the life of the local congregation, but also in the wider church through presbytery and general assembly, seeking the unity and health of Christ’s church beyond our own walls.