From a Baptist pastor-friend

Given the ecclesiological diversity of ourBaptist Church we have tried to clearly define the role of Elders in our Church Constitution. The Constitution says that the Church shall appoint Elders to fulfil the following functions:

1. Prayer for the Church, including Healing as per James 5;

2. Discernment regarding calling to ministry and support of those considering vocational ministries;

3. Monitoring the integrity of the Pastors and Church in matters of faith and behaviour, including issues of Church discipline;

4. Oversight of the provision of pastoral care within the Church;

5. Care and support of the pastors, their spouses and families. Elders are not part of the Leadership Council (a form of Diaconate) but may attend Council meetings when invited to do so. This limits the scope of the Elders’ role and encourages them to focus on their responsibilities rather than acting like “super-Deacons” across the life of the church.

Elders are nominated by the Leadership Council and require the support of 75% of Members voting by secret ballot.

It has been our practice not to seek to fill all Eldership positions, but only to nominate those whom the Leadership Council unanimously supports. At present we only have one Elder, but are in the early stages of considering if we should add to this.

I hope this is helpful.