Sessions
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Elder:
"Elders are chosen by the people. Together with the ministers of the Word and Sacrament, they exercise leadership, government, and discipline, and have responsibilities for the life of a particular church as well as the church-at-large, including ecumenical relationships. They shall serve faithfully as members of the Session."
The Book of Order, G-6.0303
"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."
The Book of Order, G-6.0303
Elders
, together with the Pastors, constitute the Session. The Session is responsible for the spiritual direction of the congregation and is the final authority in decision making of the congregation. The Elders also represent the congregation at meetings of Presbytery, Synod, and General Assembly when commissioned thereto.
The work of the Session is carried out primarily through the
following committees -
|
Christian Education |
Personnel |
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Finance |
Social Concerns |
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Membership |
Worship & Arts |
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Mission Interpretation & Stewardship |
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PRINCIPLES OF ORGANIZATION
A. THE COMMITTEES OF THE SESSION:
The Committees of the Session are:
I. The Christian Education Committee
II.
The Finance Committee
III.
The Membership Committee
IV.
The Mission Interpretation and Stewardship Committee
V.
The Personnel Committee
VI.
The Social Concerns Committee
VII.
The Worship and Arts Committee
B. THE MEMBERSHIP OF COMMITTEES:
Rotation system on each committee of Session.
Each committee should consist of three classes in consecutive years with an equal number of persons in each class, the purpose being continuity of program and experience.
Persons should ordinarily serve on only one permanent committee of the Session.
Elder Input: Each elder will receive a copy of the Session Handbook, and after study, indicate the order of preference for service on the committees of the Session for subsequent preparation of a master list of preferences.
Selection of Committee Chairs: Each year the Moderator of the Session will nominate (to the Session) an elder who is currently on Session to be the chairperson of each committee of the Session, having first secured from the individual an indication of her/his willingness to serve in that capacity. The chairpersons subsequently are elected by the Session giving full consideration to those persons nominated by the Moderator. A committee chairperson normally will serve as chair of a committee for not more than two one-year terms.
Elder Assignments: The Moderator will solicit preferences for committee assignment from each member of Session. Subsequently, the Moderator, in consultation with committee chairs and the program staff, will make selections of elders for particular committees and present the selections to the Session as nominees for election.
Selection of congregation-at-large committee members: The chairs of committees and the ministerial staff will meet as described in #5 above (the same meeting) to select potential members of the Session committees from the congregation-at-large. Chairpersons should bring to this meeting a list of persons to be considered for membership vacancies on their committees. After consideration by the total group, a negotiated agreement will be reached as to who will be approached to serve on the various committees. The chairs of committees will then recruit members from the congregation at large to fill the vacancies on their committees. When each chair has secured a full complement of the required members of the committee, the chair will then place the names in nomination for election by the Session at the next Session meeting.
C. ACCOUNTABILITY OF COMMITTEES
All Session committees are accountable to the Session, and the Session is obligated to take timely action on committee recommendations.
Generally, Session committees, following guidelines from the Book of Order or Session approved policies, will study and recommend appropriate actions to the Session or follow directions or decisions already made by the Session, including engagement in those activities for which budget has been approved.
Unless exempted by policy, the committee should obtain Session approval prior to the initiation, continuation, or elimination of activities, duties, or projects which would differ substantially in cost, program, or staff requirements from what had previously been approved or in place.
THE COMMITTEES OF SESSION
I. THE CHRISTIAN EDUCATION COMMITTEE
A. ROLE AND MISSION:
The role and mission of the Christian Education Committee is to provide an effective Christian Education program which helps us to understand and articulate our beliefs by providing a thorough Biblical and theological basis for our faith, for all ages and needs. It is to provide an open, caring, and supportive climate that encourages broad participation, sensitivity, and responsiveness to individual need and awareness of the church's changing role in society.
BOOK OF ORDER RESPONSIBILITIES: (Book of Order, G-10.0102, paragraphs indicated)
"To provide for the growth of its members and for their equipment for ministry through personal and pastoral care, education programs including the church school, sharing in fellowship and mutual support, and opportunities for witness and service to the word." (Paragraph d)
"To develop and supervise the church school and the educational program of the church." (Paragraph e)
B. ACCOUNTABILITY:
For Committee accountability, refer to PRINCIPLES OF ORGANIZATION, "C. ACCOUNTABILITY OF COMMITTEES on page 2.
C. MEMBERSHIP:
The membership of the committee shall consist of four elders, five persons from the congregation-at-large and the staff resource person. One elder will be chair of the Christian Education Committee. The other three elders will also serve one of the ministry teams (see D.1 below). The Sunday School superintendent should generally be included as an ex-officio member of this committee.
D. STRUCTURE:
The Christian Education Committee shall create the following work groups, who shall be responsible for the designated areas of work. Each group shall be accountable to the Christian Education Committee and/or report to the Session through the Christian Education Committee:
a. The Children's Ministry Team
b.
The Youth Ministry Team
c.
The Adult Ministry Team
Each work group shall have a Session representative from the Christian Education Committee. The Session representatives should chair the teams on which they serve and shall report the actions of the teams to the Christian Education Committee.
The Christian Education Committee shall facilitate the following groups who shall be accountable to the Christian Education Committee and/or report to the Session through the Christian Education Committee:
a. The Library Board
b. The Presbyterian Parent
Cooperative Preschool
c. The Boy Scout Troop 765
E. STAFF RESOURCE PERSONS:
Each Ministry Team or work group will have a designated Staff Resource Person.
F. DUTIES:
In order to achieve its role and mission, the Christian Education Committee will provide coordination and oversight for the planning, implementation, and evaluation of the educational program of the Church. The specific duties of the Christian Education Committee are:
To provide for coordination and effectiveness in the total program of Christian Education throughout the church.
To review and recommend appropriate times for the educational programming of the church.
To provide for methods of leadership development and recruitment.
To provide Session approved curriculum and staff for the church school and overall ministry of teaching.
To provide position descriptions for the church school support staff.
To provide training, support, and evaluation for the educational program of the church and its staff.
To assure the maintenance of proper Church School attendance records.
To maintain teachers' service records.
To provide supplies and maintain resource areas such as the library, the audio-visual equipment, and the resource center.
To coordinate special programs and projects in the area of Christian Education.
To plan for teacher dedication and recognition.
To provide for the annual evaluation of Church School attendance, curriculum, program, accomplishments, problems, and material needs.
To provide periodic opportunities for the entire Christian Education work force to meet for a planning or work retreat or general review of the educational task and its effectiveness.
To serve as the liaison committee through which Boy Scout Troop 765, the Presbyterian Parent Cooperative Preschool and its Board, and the Library Board shall report to the Session.
To serve as the liaison committee through which the Midland Preschool Center and the Kids Club program shall report to the Session. The groups shall make an annual report of their operations to the Christian Education Committee.
To assure compliance with the established policies for the screening of all Christian Education volunteers as part of our effort to reduce the risk of sexual abuse.
The chair, in consultation with the staff resource, shall be responsible for recruiting congregation-at-large members to serve on the Christian Education Committee.
To receive budget requests from each Team or work group and recommend a Christian Education budget for the educational program of the church to the
Coordinating Council for the annual budget hearing.
G. THE ADULT MINISTRY TEAM
1 . ACCOUNTABILITY:
The Adult Ministry Team shall be accountable to and report to the Christian Education Committee.
2. MEMBERSHIP:
The Adult Ministry Team shall consist of nine members from the congregation-at-large in three classes who have special interest and abilities in the area of adult education. Additional at-large-members shall be co-opted as needed. An officer of Presbyterian Women shall be an ex-officio member of this Team for communication, resource, support, and evaluation. The associate pastor for adult ministries shall be the staff resource person for this Team, serving as an ex-officio member without a vote.
3. DUTIES:
In order to achieve the role and mission of the Christian Education Committee, the Adult Ministry Team shall be responsible for two focus areas:
a. ADULT EDUCATION The Adult Ministry Team shall:
Provide and schedule meaningful and relevant learning opportunities for post-high school adults. This shall be done based on needs and recommendations from the congregation and staff in consultation with the committees, groups, and organizations within the church.
Study, evaluate, and recommend to the Christian Education Committee, and in turn to Session, curriculum for all adult learning opportunities.
Recruit, train, support, and evaluate leadership for adult education opportunities, including promoting and supporting participation in leadership development opportunities provided by Presbytery and other services.
Publicize all adult educational opportunities.
Evaluate adult educational opportunities with input from the congregation and from committees, groups, and organizations within the church.
Work in a liaison role with the educational programs of Presbyterian Women.
Submit an annual budget to the Christian Education Committee for the annual budget hearing of the Coordinating Council.
b. SPIRITUAL SUPPORT AND NURTURE FOR ADULTS The Adult Ministry Team shall:
Provide learning experiences in specific areas for special groups of adults within the congregation such as marriage enrichment, singles, parenting, divorce, developmentally disabled, etc.
Provide a network of small groups for various purposes (prayer, study, fellowship) which shall be accountable to the Adult Ministry Team and report through them to the Christian Education Committee.
Work with the Children's Ministry Team and the Youth Ministry Team to provide intergeneration fellowship and educational opportunities.
H. THE YOUTH MINISTRY TEAM
1. ACCOUNTABILITY:
The Youth Ministry Team shall report and be accountable to the Christian Education Committee.
2. MEMBERSHIP:
The Youth Ministry Team shall consist of nine voting members, adults and youth, in three classes, who have special interests and abilities in the area of youth education and ministry. One member of the committee, generally the chair, will be a Session member serving on the Christian Education Committee. The remaining eight members shall be from the congregation-at-large. The team will have a designated staff resource.
3. DUTIES:
In order to achieve the role and mission of the Christian Education Committee, the Youth Ministry Team shall be responsible for the following:
a. The supervision of the youth ministry program of the church.
b. The Youth Ministry Team shall be involved in the supervision and evaluation of youth ministry of the church in the following areas:
To provide and supervise a formal church school for youth in middle school through high school.
To plan programming, both formal and informal, for middle and secondary school youth, that will give them the opportunity to grow in, and act out, their faith in real life situations.
To recruit and train leadership for church school classes, fellowship, and other programs for middle and secondary school youth.
To plan confirmation education for youth.
To develop and maintain a youth support group consisting of all adults working in the youth area.
To promote participation of youth leadership in training and leader development opportunities offered outside this church.
To stimulate interest and participation in Presbytery, Synod, and national youth events.
To promote the involvement of youth in planning their own programs and in all other areas of the church activities, including Scouting.
To honor the graduating high school youth, e.g., a breakfast and the presentation of a gift.
To provide a Youth Ministry Team budget to the Christian Education Committee for submission to the Coordinating Council
for the annual budget hearing.
To provide job descriptions for youth Christian Education and Fellowship leaders.
The chair, in consultation with the staff resource, shall be responsible for recruiting congregation-at-large members, as needed, to serve on the Youth Ministry Team in accordance with the procedure described in the Principles of Organization section on this handbook.
I. THE CHILDREN'S MINISTRY TEAM
1. ACCOUNTABILITY:
The Children's Ministry Team shall report and be accountable to the Christian Education Committee.
2. MEMBERSHIP:
The Children's Ministry Team shall consist of nine voting members in three classes who have special interests and abilities in the area of children's education and ministry. One member of the committee, generally the chair, will be a Session member serving on the Christian Education Committee. The remaining eight members shall be from the congregation-at-large. The team will have a designated staff resource
3. DUTIES:
In order to achieve the role and mission of the Christian Education Committee, the Children's Ministry Team shall oversee the following:
a. To supervise all activities in the church of an educational nature for children, including Church School, Summer Church School, Vacation Church School, and stewardship education for children in cooperation with the Mission Interpretation and Stewardship Committee.
b. To study, evaluate, and recommend to the Christian Education Committee, and in turn to the Session, curriculum for the Church School and other educational opportunities for children.
c. To provide special programs involving the children of the church, such as Third Grade Bible Presentation, any Church School Christmas program, One Great Hour of Sharing, and camps and conferences for children.
d. To provide for joint supervision and planning with the Music and Arts Ministries Coordinator for the Kum ba Yah program.
e. To provide child care for preschool children during Church School and at other times child care is needed, for special services and programs in accordance with the Child Care Policy of the Session.
f. To recruit and train teachers and workers for children from birth through elementary grades for Church School, Worship Enrichment, Summer Church School, and Vacation Church School.
g. To provide a Children's Ministry Team budget to the Christian Education Committee for submission to the
Coordinating Council for the annual budget hearing.
h. To provide job descriptions for children's Christian Education leaders.
i. The chair, in consultation with the staff resource, shall be responsible for recruiting congregation-at-large members, as needed, to serve on the Children's Ministry Team in accordance with the procedures described in the Principles of Organization section of this handbook.
II. THE FINANCE COMMITTEE
A. ROLE AND MISSION:
The Finance Committee shall be responsible for the oversight and reporting of financial management matters of the church.
BOOK OF ORDER RESPONSIBILITIES: (G-10.0400) BOOK OF ORDER RESPONSIBILITIES: (G-10.0400)
"Those in charge of the various funds in the church shall report at least annually to the session, and more often when requested.
a. The keeping of adequate books and records to reflect all financial transactions, open to inspection by authorized church officers at reasonable times;
b. Periodic reporting of the financial activities to the board or boards vested with financial oversight at least annually, preferably more often."
B. ACCOUNTABILITY:
The committee is accountable to the Session and may take no action without Session approval. The Session is obligated to take timely action on committee recommendations.
For general accountability, refer to PRINCIPLES OF ORGANIZATION, "C. ACCOUNTABILITY OF COMMITTEES" on page 2.
C. MEMBERSHIP:
This committee shall consist of nine members in three classes. Three members are to be from the Session, one member from the Board of Trustees, one member from the Investment Committee, one member from the Board of Deacons, and three members from the congregation-at-large. The church treasurer and the Church Business Administrator shall be members ex officio@of the committee, without vote.
D. DUTIES:
To participate in long-range planning as it pertains to budgetary needs and assess impact of such planning on overall budget.
To report at the annual congregational meeting the financial position of Memorial Presbyterian Church.
To assure that a financial report is presented monthly to the Session, Trustees, and Deacons and that the report is presented in a format which provides information regarding the general financial condition of MPC.
To monitor General Fund income and expenditures versus budget. As necessary, recommend adjustments in current year budgets to the Coordinating Council for action.
To promote and evaluate a program for wills and bequests for the church.
To review annually, with the Investment Committee and the Board of Trustees, the status of church investments and report results of that review to the Session.
To monitor committees responsible for recommending to Session the use of restricted and unrestricted funds under the terms of each bequest or agreement for use of such funds.
To assure that financial transactions and record keeping for Memorial Presbyterian Church are conducted in keeping with "regularly accepted accounting principles."
To assure that reimbursement, expense, and payment procedures follow "generally accepted accounting principles" and all other applicable guidelines including those recommended by the IRS.
To provide a Finance Committee budget to theCoordinating Council for the annual budget hearing.
E. GENERAL:
The following committees, which have responsibility for "restricted" and 'unrestricted" bequests and gifts, (see D. 7., above) shall have their recommendations to Session for disbursement of funds reported to the Session through the Session Finance Committee.
The Memorial and Special Gifts Committee. This committee should consist of nine (9) members in three classes, of three members each, on a regular rotation system of membership.
The Advance Concepts Committee. This committee should consist of nine (9) members in three classes, of three members each, on a regular rotation system of membership.
The Investment Committee. This committee shall consist of nine (9) members in three classes, of three members each, on a regular rotation system of membership.
The Scholarship Committee. This committee should consist of six (6) members in three classes, of two members each, on a regular rotation system of membership. One high school counselor each from Midland and Dow High Schools should serve on the committee, ex-officio, with vote.
The Gindlesperger Bible Committee. This committee should consist of three (3) members in three classes, of one member each, on a regular rotation system of membership.
The Wills and Bequests Committee. This committee should consist of three (3) members in three classes, of one member each, on a regular rotation system of membership.
III. THE MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE
A. MISSION:
The mission of this committee is to foster open, caring, friendly participation among all church members, encouraging them to exhibit loving concern and reaching out to prospective members in the community. The committee should provide a means of inviting, involving and retaining new and current members and reinvigorating members who have become less active. It should be involved with accurate record keeping. Communications and welcoming activities are carried out by several subcommittees.
B. BOOK OF ORDER RESPONSIBILITIES:
G-10.0102b-involves receiving members into the church, etc... provides that membership should not be denied to any person because of race, economic or social circumstances, or any other reason no related to profession of faith.
G-10.0102e-provide for growth of members.
G-10.0102s-in accordance with G-10.0302 - keep accurate rolls, grant certificates of transfer, etc.
C. ACCOUNTABILITY:
Refer to new Principles of Organization, Accountability of Committees, including accountability to Session and pastoral staff.
D. COMMITTEE MEMBERSHIP:
Recommend two elders, one serving as chair, the second with less seniority becoming chair the following year. Members at large-number determined on need in three year terms, ideally in three classes. Also serving is clerk of session, ex-officio, and a pastor as staff resource.
E. COMMITTEE RESPONSIBILITIES:
In addition to regular work, Membership Committee oversees:
Communications Ministry Subcommittee
Welcoming Ministry
Welcome Station
Regular Membership Committee Responsibilities
Evangelism
Facilitate MPC program of evangelism.
Maintain welcoming information boards at all church entrances.
Keep brochures and maps of church at all church entrances.
Coordinate "Mission of the Month" project with other committees.
New Members
With staff, set dates for new member classes, host classes, plan recognition including name badges, flowers, photos, certificates and fellowship hour recognition. If budget allows, gift of book, Presbyterian Questions, Presbyterian Answers, to each family. In some years, a brunch or dinner could be held. Committee also posts new member photos in display case outside Fellowship Hall and places outdated photos in album kept on shelf in office walkway.
Assist assimilation of new members into the life and work of the congregation by compiling and circulating information from Gifts and Talents surveys to all committee chairs, urging they be contacted.
Membership Participation
Involve entire congregation in presenting the church's image as friendly and welcoming.
Work with clerk of session to create an annual membership roll (not distributed to entire congregation because of expense) and, every four to five years, plan a pictorial directory. Publish an annual list of new members.
Provide oversight for material in Grapevine (monthly) and Great Things (weekly) publications.
Plan budget-appropriate advertising with Communications Ministry for telephone book yellow pages and local newspaper. A committee member should sit on subcommittee as liaison.
Be responsible for rack literature and publications such as "Alive Now" and "These Days."
Follow budget expenditures monthly, adjusting where necessary.
Maintain, update bulletin boards, keeping materials posted appropriate to our church.
Recruit, schedule pastoral greeting assistants, send reminder cards. Recruitment generally has been done on all-committee night and at Deacon and Session meetings.
Publish names of 50-year members, see that they receive golden name badges.
Records
With clerk of session, maintain accurate membership rolls, reviewing annually. This includes recommending to Session appropriate changes in membership status following all rules in Book of Order, G-10.0302.
Maintain contact, where possible, with non-resident members, encouraging them to transfer membership to a new church home.
Work with "The Elder Network" to encourage and nourish inactive and non-attending members to become active again.
Collect and maintain up-to-date committee membership lists annually and distribute to staff, office and all committee chairs. do this after officer installation and new committee formation in January/February.
Budget
Submit a Membership Committee budget to the Session Budget Committee for the annual budget hearing. Work closely with church financial administrator year-round.
SUBCOMMITTEES OF MEMBERSHIP COMMITTEE
COMMUNICATIONS MINISTRY SUBCOMMITTEE
Mission:
The Communications Ministry Subcommittee is established as an adjunct to the Membership Committee of the Session. Its purpose is to facilitate and coordinate the presentation of information to the congregation and to the community through local media, concerning the mission, activities, and people of Memorial Presbyterian Church; and to ensure that the public message presented by Memorial Presbyterian Church is consistent, balanced, and in accordance with the mission of the church.
Book of Order Responsibilities and Accountability-same as that of Membership Committee.
Membership:
Members are recruited for communication and artistic skills. No term limits. A member of Membership Committee sits as liaison.
Duties:
Plan, create and publish:
Stories highlighting major events, news
Weekly advertising in local newspaper
Display ads for major events in the church year and a presence in special publications.
Design ads for telephone book yellow pages and/or special publications.
Work within line-item budgeted expense in Membership Committee budget.
WELCOMING MINISTRY SUBCOMMITTEE
Mission:
To contact visitors identified on Ritual of Friendship pads and invite them back.
Responsibilities and Accountability: Same as other Membership subcommittees.
Membership: Volunteer, no term limits. Replacements by signup sheets.
Duties:
Each week, the church office gives names of new visitors to pastor, who then sends letter of welcome. After the letters are sent, a Welcoming Ministry volunteer receives the names and is asked to telephone them. Members ask if visitors received the letter and invite them back, then inform the office that calls were made. Further contact is by a pastor.
WELCOME STATION SUBCOMMITTEE
Mission:
Staffing Allen Street reception desk on Sunday morning to be friendly and informative to visitors.
Responsibilities and Accountability: Same as other subcommittees.
Membership: Recruited by coordinator, who is a member of Membership Committee. No term limits.
Duties:
Presence at Allen Street reception desk on Sunday morning.
IV. THE MISSION INTERPRETATION AND STEWARDSHIP COMMITTEE
A. ROLE AND MISSION:
The responsibility of this committee is to encourage members of The Memorial Presbyterian Church to hear and respond to God's call to the role of the steward. It is, therefore, to create an environment where giving and serving is seen as a Christian responsibility and comes from within.
BOOK OF ORDER RESPONSIBILITIES:
"To lead the congregation in participation in the mission of the whole church in the world, in accordance with G-3.0000."' (G-1 0.01 02b)
"To challenge the people of God with the privilege of responsible Christian stewardship of money and times and talents, developing effective ways for encouraging and gathering the offerings of the people." (G-10.0102g)
B. ACCOUNTABILITY:
For Committee accountability, refer to PRINCIPLES OF ORGANIZATION, "C. ACCOUNTABILITY OF COMMITTEES" on page 2.
C. MEMBERSHIP:
The committee should consist of nine persons in three classes. Three members should be members of Session, and six members shall be from the congregation-at-large.
D. DUTIES:
To develop among the membership the will to give generously with joy.
To develop a year-round program of stewardship education and mission interpretation and provide opportunities and events that will give the congregation new and creative experiences of mission interpretation that will stimulate a greater concern both for the mission of the local church and the mission of the larger church, such as a Mission Fair, School of Missions, etc.; and to provide, in conjunction with the Christian Education Committee, meaningful opportunities for church-wide adult learning in the areas of the church's mission.
To keep the church family well informed of the distribution of their gifts and to inform and educate the congregation and officers as to the purpose of and the needs for community, state, national, and world outreach.
To provide greater awareness of opportunities to devote time and talent to the work of the church. Find ways to help members understand that time and skills are as valuable as monetary gifts.
To promote, in cooperation with the ministry teams of the Christian Education Committee, a program of church-wide stewardship education for the children, youth, adults, and new members.
To develop a philosophy for the stewardship program. To design and oversee the annual pledge season, name the director of the pledge season, and assist in recruiting the personnel needed to implement the stewardship season.
When the proposed budget has been adopted by the Session, the Mission Interpretation Committee should then communicate it to the congregation.
To lead the congregation in the celebration of the results of the church's giving.
To be responsible for the Minute for Mission and its scheduling.
To study the giving patterns and potential of the congregation and devise ways of broadening the base of giving within the church. To study the demographics of the church and assess their impact on the giving patterns of the church.
To create long-term strategies for financial resource development that will support the needs of this church.
To study, review, recommend, interpret, promote and facilitate the Special Offerings of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) such as: One Great Hour of Sharing, Christmas Joy Offering, Peace Offering, Witness Offering, Two Coins-A-Meal Offering, and other opportunities approved 4y Session.
To promote an understanding and use of the Mission Yearbook for Prayer and Study and Presbyterians Today.
To provide a Mission Interpretation and Stewardship Committee budget including the commitment to the larger church, the per capita apportionment, and the contribution for Theological Education to the Coordinating Council for the annual budget hearing of the Coordinating Council, and recommend the percentage distribution figures for the mission contributions to Presbytery, Synod and General Assembly.
V. THE PERSONNEL COMMITTEE
A. ROLE AND MISSION:
The role and mission of the Personnel Committee is to support the work and ministry of the church through effective personnel administration in cooperation with the Head of Staff, to create a supportive relationship with the staff, and to provide another communication link between the staff, boards, and the congregation. The Personnel Committee will seek to provide an open, caring climate that encourages broad participation, shared influence, and assured confidentiality.
BOOK OF ORDER RESPONSIBILITIES:
"To provide for the administration of the program of the church, including employment of non-ordained staff, with concern for equal employment opportunity, fair employment practices, personnel policies, and the annual review of the adequacy of compensation for all staff, including all employees." (G-10.0102n)
B. ACCOUNTABILITY:
For Committee accountability, refer to PRINCIPLES OF ORGANIZATION, "C. ACCOUNTABILITY OF COMMITTEES" on page 2.
In matters pertaining to the ministers on staff, it shall also be accountable to the Presbytery.
C. MEMBERSHIP:
The committee should consist of nine persons, in three classes. Three members are to be members of Session, three should be Trustees (appointed by the President of the Board of Trustees), and three should be from the congregation-at-large.
D. DUTIES:
To achieve its role and mission, the Personnel Committee will keep contact with all staff to provide for evaluations, recommendations, and mutual support.
In consultation with the Head of Staff the committee will develop, submit for approval, and thereafter maintain with periodic review and updating:
a) A staffing plan to meet all personnel needs of the church;
b) Position descriptions for all members of the staff;
c) A Manual of Personnel Policies and Practices for all church employees;
d) A Personnel Committee budget for presentation to the Coordinating Council for the annual budget hearing.
Session approval is required for each of the above documents and any significant change therein., Session approval is required for each of the above documents and any significant change therein.,
3. The Personnel Committee will:
a) Seek to create a supportive relationship with the staff;
b) Ensure that an annual review and evaluation process occurs for all church staff;
c) Review annually the terms of call for each minister to determine the adequacy of compensation and recommend any changes to the congregation for approval at the annual meeting. It shall also be the duty of the Personnel Committee to make an annual review of the adequacy of compensation for all other staff as prescribed by the Book of Order, (G-10.0102n)
d) Oversee the benefits of the Memorial Presbyterian Church Pension Plan; (The fiduciary responsibilities rest with the Investment Committee)
e) Review all personnel matters to ensure compliance with all state and federal employment laws and regulations;
f) Report to the Session regularly on personnel matters including all Committee recommendations for any significant change in staff personnel or job assignments.
VI. THE SOCIAL CONCERNS COMMITTEE
A. ROLE AND MISSION:
The role and mission of the Social Concerns Committee is to provide educational opportunities for members of The Memorial Presbyterian Church on major social and peacemaking issues affecting church and society which will aid our members in making personal decisions regarding these issues, to foster an awareness of the church's changing role in society, and to reaffirm that in the service of our Lord Jesus Christ we are a worshiping, serving, and witnessing community.
BOOK OF ORDER RESPONSIBILITIES:
"To lead the congregation in ministries of personal and social healing and reconciliation in the communities in which the church lives and bears its witness." (G-10.0102@
"To lead the congregation continually to discover what God is doing in the world and to plan for change, renewal, and reformation under the Word of God." (G-10.0102i)
B. ACCOUNTABILITY:
For Committee accountability, refer to PRINCIPLES OF ORGANIZATION, "C. ACCOUNTABILITY OF COMMITTEES" on page 2.
C. MEMBERSHIP:
This committee should consist of eleven members including two youth who will be appointed annually by the chair on the recommendation of the Youth Ministry Team. The other nine members should be in three classes with three members being members of Session and six members being from the congregation-at-large.
D. DUTIES:
1. To study and advise the Session on major societal issues of Christian concern including those before the General Assembly.
2. To help the congregation serve all God's children, with special concern for the powerless and spiritually hungry, through a ministry of social justice and outreach.
3. To keep the congregation abreast of any special issues pertaining to Social Justice and Peacemaking.
4. To provide, in cooperation with the Adult Ministry Team, study opportunities for members to consider major social issues, especially in areas where the church-at-large has developed study papers.
5. To develop our relationship with other churches in the community.
6. To encourage members to participate in volunteer services in the greater community.
7. The Peace Fellowship shall report to and through the Social Concerns Committee.
(The Peace Fellowship is a community within our congregation that is dedicated to helping those seeking shalom in all aspects of life. Faith, justice and mercy are recognized as vital elements in peacemaking. The monthly "Dialogue Sessions" and the annual observance of "Peace Sunday" are the major events sponsored by the Peace Fellowship. Support is also provided for Christian Education in various aspects of peacemaking. Other projects develop as special needs and i6terests arise.)
8. To review and recommend appropriate use of church buildings and facilities by community groups:
Requests for one-time or short-term use of the facilities by outside groups shall be approved or rejected by the chair of this committee, in consultation with the Church Business Administrator and the Head of Staff. Requests for one-time or short-term use of the facilities by outside groups shall be approved or rejected by the chair of this committee, in consultation with the Church Business Administrator and the Head of Staff.
Requests for a more extensive use of the facilities requires a broader and more careful consideration; the chairperson will call members of the committee for their consent and shall consult with the Church Business Administrator and the Head of Staff. Approvals shall be reported to the Session at a regular meeting and included in the minutes of that meeting. Requests for a more extensive use of the facilities requires a broader and more careful consideration; the chairperson will call members of the committee for their consent and shall consult with the Church Business Administrator and the Head of Staff. Approvals shall be reported to the Session at a regular meeting and included in the minutes of that meeting.
Requests for long-term use of building space shall be reviewed by the Social Concerns Committee in consultation with the Head of Staff, the Church Building Administrator, and the Property Committee of the Trustees, and a recommendation shall be made to the Session for action. Requests for long-term use of building space shall be reviewed by the Social Concerns Committee in consultation with the Head of Staff, the Church Building Administrator, and the Property Committee of the Trustees, and a recommendation shall be made to the Session for action.
9. To be responsible for the development and implementation of emerging sister-church relationships.
10. To be responsible for the development and implementation of our covenant relationship with the FIEC churches in Costa Rica.
11. To provide a Social Concerns Committee budget to be submitted to the Coordinating Council for the annual budget hearing.
VII. THE WORSHIP AND ARTS COMMITTEE
A. ROLE AND MISSION:
The Role and Mission of the Worship and Arts Committee is to provide flexible and responsive worship experiences which empower us to actively witness to God's presence and activity in our lives and in our world. Worship involves every member, encouraging lay involvement and a variety of music and arts. Central to worship is reading the Bible, hearing the sermon, prayer, and celebration of the Sacraments. Worship is a source of hope, challenge and spiritual growth as God's word becomes relevant in our daily lives, as well as to provide an open, caring and supportive climate.
BOOK OF ORDER RESPONSIBILITIES:
"To provide for the worship of the people of God, including the preaching of the Word, the sharing of the Sacraments, and for the music program, in keeping with the principles in the Directory for Worship ... ;" in the Book of Order. (G-1 0.01 02d) "To establish and maintain those ecumenical relationships necessary for the life and mission of the church in its locality." (as pertaining to worship)
B. ACCOUNTABILITY:
For Committee accountability, refer to PRINCIPLES OF ORGANIZATION, "C. ACCOUNTABILITY OF COMMITTEES" on page 2.
C. MEMBERSHIP:
The committee should consist of at least nine members in three classes. Three members should be members of Session, and other members should be from the congregation-at-large. The Music and Arts Ministries Coordinator should be an ex-officio member of the committee and without vote. The Pastor (Head of Staff) will serve as the staff resource person for the Worship and Arts Committee.
D. DUTIES:
In order to achieve its role and mission, the committee will provide for planning, implementing, coordinating and evaluating a variety of worship experiences. The duties of the committee are:
1. To be responsible for the services of worship of the church and all matters pertaining directly to them, such as:
a) The recruiting, training and scheduling of greeters, ushers, and pastoral greeting assistants.
b) Approve all non-routine events to be included in the Sunday morning worship service. (Exclusive of the Minute for Mission. See MIS)
c) Review the Worship and Arts program periodically with the Christian Education Committee for good coordination.
d) To provide for pulpit supply and guest ministers, in consultation with the Head of Staff.
e) To provide for special services of worship and music that are to occur during the year, such as: the Advent and Christmas Eve Services, Lenten Services, Maundy Thursday Service, Good Friday, Easter Sunrise Service, the Vesper Series, etc.
f) Be responsible for sanctuary flowers, banners, decorations, and the care of aids to worship. The committee shall oversee the Flower Fund.
g) To oversee the content, format, and usage of the Sunday morning "Guide" and its printing.
2. To promote the development of an effective music and arts program and develop ways of supporting and encouraging the choirs of the church. Provide ongoing support and consultation with the entire music staff.
a) Meet regularly with the Music and Arts Ministries Coordinator, who in turn meets regularly with the Music Staff.
b) Review music program, choir schedules, and other music-program related events.
c) Review the Worship and Arts program periodically with the Christian Education Committee for coordination. Review with the Children's Ministry Team for coordination of the Kum ba Yah and God's Family at the Table programs.
d) Review music staff salaries annually in consultation with the Music and Arts Ministries Coordinator and make recommendations to the Personnel Committee.
e) Review music and arts program needs and as necessary make recommendations to the appropriate body.
3. Recommend the schedule for the observance of the Sacrament of the Lord's Supper, oversee the preparation of the elements, and secure elders for the distribution of the elements.
4. Become familiar with the "Directory of Worship," especially regarding the theology of Baptism and the Lord's Supper.
5. To recommend the baptism of those persons who wish to receive the Sacrament of Baptism; to oversee the services of baptism, and secure elders to assist; and to see that instruction is provided for those parents whose children are to be baptized.
6. To encourage family worship and individual devotional life.
7. To work in consultation with the ministers to establish policies for weddings and funerals held in the church facilities.
8. To provide general oversight for the radio and television ministries with the exception of the technical and equipment areas.
9. To submit a Worship and Arts Committee budget to the Coordinating Council for the annual budget hearing.