The motivation to provide continuing study ideas for elders and deacons comes from the particular references in the Book of Order—The Constitution of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) Part II.

In G-14.0205, “Preparation for Office,” we find one of two references to the expectation that study and examination will happen between the time members are elected to be elders or deacons and their ordination/ installation as officers. The study and exam, as described, are to involve:

1. one’s personal faith
2. one’s knowledge of doctrine
3. one’s knowledge of government
4. one’s knowledge of duties of the office

In G-10.0102 l. the task of educator and tester is assigned to the current session. What I like about this version of the preparation is the addition of “welcome” to the assignment to instruct, examine, ordain, or install. The session is to welcome these members to the common ministry shared by those who have been ordained. The welcome to ministry is what to study, including self-examination of one’s faith, and some form of exam that demonstrates our mutual accountability to one another are so important.

The pages in ideas! magazine and resources produced and shared by the church at the General Assembly also contribute to the shared wisdom and experience that makes up the common ministry of ordained leadership.

Staff in the Office of the General Assembly (OGA) and the General Assembly Council (GAC) have been studying research results and working together to provide key resources in support of that common ministry.

One of the first (and obvious decisions) was that updated versions of some “oldies but goodies” should be the first project. So, You’ve Been Elected an Elder; So, You’ve Been Elected a Deacon, and an equally important related brochure, Nominating Church Officers are available. Remember that congregational nominating committees are to have an elder member who is currently on the session and who will serve as moderator of the committee (G-14.0201b).

These So, You’ve Been Elected . . . resources are to-the-point, practical, and presented in a straightforward format.

The series covers the basic responsibilities and practical tasks facing the elected officers, as well as Presbyterian doctrine and personal faiths. Thinking about and understanding doctrine, as stated in our confessions and other parts of our constitution, is an ongoing study for elders, deacons, and ministers of Word and Sacrament.

A church leader resource project that was hard at work a couple of years ago intended to produce a book and study guide on a number of theologically focused topics. Annual downsizing of budget and staff over that time resulted in the project sitting on a “back burner.” We have, however, been able to develop a smaller group of these essays to help deepen our “Common Ministry as Church Leaders,” and make them available to loan. Active church leaders contributed their thinking to this effort to enhance our common ministry.

You can access these essays through the Theology and Worship Web site.

Some of the topics included are:

• Biblical Authority and Interpretation
• Twelve Theses Concerning Leadership
• Justice
• Polity
• Disciplemaking

It is hoped that as we study together and are accountable to one another for our beliefs and actions as church leaders, we will grow in faith and knowledge to the benefit of our common ministry.

Donald Campbell, author, is Director of Congregational Ministries Division. Contact him at (888) 728-7228, ext. 5144.