1. Who chooses elders and what is the process for becoming an elder?

By seeking input from the church body, the current elders are responsible for identifying those who are presently “eldering” i.e., living out the responsibilities of eldership above. The process can be summarized by 1) Aspiration: This person aspires to the office. 2) Qualification: This person is qualified. 3) Confirmation: The church body confirms this person’s character. 4) Affirmation: The church body affirms their submission to this elder’s leadership. The entire process takes from nine to twelve months.

2. How many elders are there at Fellowship, and are any staff members elders?

Qualified staff members can be elders, but the majority must be non-staff. Fellowship currently has nine elders, five of whom are non-staff while four are staff members.

3. How are elder decisions made?

Decisions from the board must be unanimous with multiple hearts submitting to the will of one leader – Jesus – and to each other. By this we believe Jesus’ will and character is most fully revealed.

4. How long do elders serve?

Elders commit to serve a three-year term, after which they may re-commit to a second three-year term. After two terms, they will move to “inactive” elder status. After a year as an “inactive” elder, they may be invited to return to an active elder status if needed and they meet all elder requirements.

5. Can women be elders?

6. Has Fellowship taught more extensively on eldership?

Yes. The Fellowship teaching pastors taught a three-part series on eldership in 2018. Check out the message series here.