 Governance
Deacons
The Office of the Deacon is set forth in Scripture. This individual is to be of strong character and to be fully immersed in the practices of sympathy, witness and service after the example of Jesus Christ. Deacons are to be people of spiritual character, of exemplary lives, brotherly and sisterly love, warm sympathies, and sound judgment. (Book of Order: G-6.0401).
A Deacon serves a three-year term with other members who are elected to join him or her in a Class. There are always 15 people in every class and three classes serving at once. The purpose of the Deacon, at First Presbyterian Church, is one grounded in the value of service.
Some of the duties our Deacons willingly perform are things as simple as greeting you as you enter into Worship. Deacons ensure that the proper accoutrements are in place prior to worship; they open the door for you on Sunday mornings; collect the offering; operate the Front Desk; secure the parking lots and facilities during the worship hour; lead, serve and report on at least two different committees; collect your payments for Fourthnight dinner; ring the church bell; and serve you during Special Worship Services.
We are part of a larger government called the Presbytery. The presbytery is a governing body that is made of several churches. The next level of governance is the Synod, which is a governing body made of several Presbyteries. Our church is part of the Cherokee Presbytery and consequently the South Atlantic Synod.
Churches, Presbyteries and Synods are all governed by the decrees and decisions of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church (USA). Beyond the General Assembly lies the Scripture and Jesus Christ, who rightfully serves as the head of all churches.
Session
The Session is the governing body of the church and is made of 30 individuals who serve as Elders. Session members are called by God, elected to office by the congregation and responsible for the whole life and ministry of First Presbyterian Church.
Through its oversight of a multitude of Councils and Committees, the Session members handle issues of personnel, mission, worship, congregational programs, evangelism, new member orientation, receiving and dismissing members, nurture of the congregation and educational curriculum. Elders also serve on committees of the Presbytery.
Elders should be persons of faith, dedication, and good judgment. Their manner of life should be a demonstration of the Christian gospel both within the church and in the world.(G-6.0106)
Session Members serve three-year terms.
For More Information
For more information about our Presbyterian Government and issues that lie before our General Assembly, please click here.
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