The New Testament tells us that the role of elders is that of “under-shepherds” and overseers. They are to be pastors/elders/teachers for the body, along with the paid pastoral staff. The basic qualifications for the role are set out in I Timothy 3:1-7.  Ephesians 4:7-13 gives further insight into where elders fit into God’s plan for “equipping the body.”

Additions to the elders group are the result of thought, prayer and discussion among the current elders and input from the congregation. Their convictions about who should be added are brought to the whole congregation for prayer and discussion. The members of the body are then asked to give their feedback to the elders and encouraged to ask questions about the candidates.

After two or three weeks of this process the candidates are publicly confirmed by the chairman or another member of the eldership. At the next appropriate opportunity the new elders are inducted into their role in the body during a public confirmation time in the Sunday morning services. The elders and others from the body pray over them and lay hands on them to commissions them to their ministry.

We believe this process follows the pattern of the New Testament, where elders are appointed by those in authority. We also trust that those who are chosen are the ones that God has indicated for the role through their previous pastoral service and the wisdom and care they have demonstrated among his people.

See Acts 14:23, 20:17, Titus 1:5, James 5:14, Philippians 1:1, 1 Timothy 5:17

Eldership Terms: Our elders serve four year terms with the potential of serving an additional year, before going through a mandatory year off. Former elders, ‘elders at large’ continue to serve in significant ways and may be asked for special input or to participate in special prayer ministry.

If you would like to contact the elders, you can do so at elders@myhillside.ca.