THE ADVENTURES OF GRAYING PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH: “He Is Risen, Indeed!”

On Thursday night, Red, Mary and the children arrived at the Church at 6:30 for the 7:00 o’clock Maundy Thursday Communion Service. The usual suspect wandered in—the choir, some of the elders and deacons, and a few of the older members.

Don and Brenda Traveler and their children walked in and,to Red’s surprise and delight, Mary Lou Sunstadt and Annie Parker quickly moved to greet them. Mary waved, and the Travelers came over to sit with the Painter family. Because the Men’s Choir was singing, Mary had the night “off,” giving her some time with Brenda.

The service and candle lit communion was, as usual, a time of spiritual enrichment.

As they were leaving the church, Mary and Brenda planned for the two families to meet for the Youth Group’s traditional Easter breakfast in the Fellowship Hall and for the families to worship together on Sunday morning.

In the car, Mary said, “They are really interested in Graying. The folks at the Community Church were really friendly, but they want a deeper spiritual nurture, and they are getting that from Rex. You need to tell him that—he needs encouragement.”

Red smiled. This is a time of spiritual rebirth, he thought.

On Sunday morning, the Fellowship Hall was packed, as was the Sanctuary. Red and the children sat with the Travelers, while Mary headed for the choir loft. Several of the regulars, arriving at their usual time, were stunned to see strangers sitting in “their” seats, but many took the opportunity to welcome visitors. Red made note of two new faces and , with Mary Lou Sunstadt, made sure that they introduced the folks to Rex and that they got addresses and phone numbers.

The choir rattled the rafters with The Holy City. The joyous message of the empty tomb and our risen Lord resonated in prayer, song, the written Word read and the Gospel rightly preached.

We may have issues, Red thought, but we also have the good news of Jesus Christ, and nothing can top that! We just have to be the people that God has called us to be. We’ll still have things to do next week and next month and next year to be the Church with skin on. We just need to keep the Main Thing the main thing. He is risen! Hallelujah, Amen!

And with the dear brothers and sisters of Graying Pres, I join in proclaiming to all “He is risen! He is risen indeed!”

THE ADVENTURES OF GRAYING PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH: You can lead an elder to water, but can you make him think?

“OK. We’ve got elder training covered. How about the deacons,” Rex asked?

“That’s not as hard as you might imagine,” Red responded. “Back in the Winter of ’77, George Washington had the same problem over at Valley Forge. Baron von Steuben had the answer, He trained a cadre—two representatives from each Regiment—who then went back to teach their respective parent Regiments. Our elders, once trained, will examine and train the deacons.”

Rex nodded. “I think the harder part will be convincing some of our elders that they need to be trained. And expect some to resist the expectation that they become spiritual leaders and overseers rather than bean counters.”

"You’re right, Pastor. Those who really are not called to be ruling elders will be the toughest to deal with. We know the difficulty that the Nominating Committee has had in getting folks to stand for election as an elder or deacon. In their desperation, they have taken anyone who will volunteer, and the session has failed in its duty to examine the candidates. So, the process of educating the elders and deacons will not necessarily be a one-shot deal.”

Red continued, “My First Sergeant used to say that ‘The best time to plant a tree is 25 years ago. The next best time is today.’ We need to at least start the process. The good news is that the denomination has created a wonderful resource for us.”

Rex picked up the phone and called Ellen Klass. After explaining the discussion he and Red had just completed, he asked “Would you be willing to join Red in asking me to call a special meeting of the session to discuss elder training?”

“Gladly. Can we do it as a Sunday School class so more folks can attend?”


And so it begins. Will the session balk? Will anyone resign? Can they get the Leadership Training Manuals from GA in time for the first class? Join us next time for answers as we follow the adventures of Graying Pres.

THE ADVENTURES OF GRAYING PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH: “Hey, guys, do we have a neat trip planned or what?”

“But how do we begin,” Red asked? Rex frowned and tiredly shook his head.

Red continued. “Rhetorical question, Pastor; just kidding. We start by training the session and the deacons. And the best way to do that is to get involved with the “Penn’s Woods Ministry Network.” A friend of mine is an elder at Frog’s Neck. He told me that PWMN is planning a joint leadership training weekend for the sessions and candidates for election as ruling elders of all three churches in a couple of weeks. I know that we would be welcomed into the Network and it would give our elders an opportunity to meet with, work with, and fellowship with some pretty astute church leaders.”

“Will that work?”

“Yeah, it will. The Kansas-Missouri Ministry Network recently did the same thing. I have friends at all four churches out there in God’s country, including a pastor who went through the war with me. The elders have all reported that it was one of the best ‘leadership’ events they have ever attended.”

“But will it work here?”

“Why not? The elders out in the plains went on to say that the content was very informative and useful, but it was the joint worship and fellowship with other believers that really excited them.”

Rex sighed. “Well, that sounds great, but how do we get our folks to agree? They see themselves as corporate officers, and they seem to think they have that down pat.”

“Yup, they do and they do. That is why they need the training. They need help in recognizing that they are not just bean counters. Anyone can “manage” the “business” of the congregation. But ordained leaders are charged with the spiritual nurture, development, and discipline of the congregation—and that takes training that most laymen do not have.”

“And you have the advantage there,” Red continued. “Use your pastoral prestige to remind them of their office and the responsibilities that come with it. Challenge them, and declare your expectations. This session respects you and your office. This is a time to use it for the benefit of Graying Pres.”

“All right, I’ll add that to the docket for next month’s meeting.”

"Sure, you can do that, but I think you will be wasting a grand opportunity. The training session at PWMN is scheduled in two weeks—before our session meeting. Why not call a special meeting of the session to get direction to join PWMN. Then hit them with your expectation that they will attend the training. Having agreed to join, they will be hard pressed to turn around and avoid using one benefit of membership.”

“And, by the way,” Red added. “This will give you membership in the Pastor’s Covenant Group. Just what you need, brother.”

“Darn, Red, but you do make it sound so easy.”

“Leadership doesn’t have to be hard. Enthusiasm is the key. If you demonstrate excitement and enthusiasm, they will pick up on it. When I was a Lieutenant at TBS, my small group discussion leader was the Staff Judge Advocate. He was a former infantry officer. One of his maxims was ‘Leadership is the art of telling people that we are going to hell in such a way that they look forward to the trip.’ You’ll be advertising a much more enjoyable adventure, don’tcha think?”

Well! Can Rex do it? Will the session agree? Will the Graying Pres leadership wake up to their responsibilities, setting off a blizzard in Hades? Join us next time for answers as we follow the adventures of Graying Pres.

THE ADVENTURES OF GRAYING PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH: The Further Adventures Of Spin And Marty, er, Rex And Red *

Red continued, “You know, Rex, you are being a little hard on yourself, undeservedly so. Heaven (actually) knows that you are not perfect. No offense.”

“None taken,” Rex replied drily.

“Well, you are acting as if you are perfect and that everything you touch should turn to gold. As my Gunny once told me, ‘There was only one perfect man in history----and we couldn’t stand it, so we hung him on a cross!’”

“Who is your writer,” Rex chuckled? He had obviously never met a seasoned non-commissioned officer.

Ignoring him, Red went on. “You have strengths and you have other areas that are less strong. You may remember that I was on the Search Committee that identified you as God’s choice for this call. It was my first exposure to congregational leadership. When we interviewed you, you told us that your moderatorial skills were not your strongest suit. We agreed to take that into consideration. Earl Regis and Paul Peters were on that Committee. They promised to support you if and when the session ever got too rambunctious. Have you ever held them to that promise?”

“What do you mean?”

“You were just beating yourself up ‘cause you ‘lost control’ of Monday’s meeting. Now I think you have a stronger will than you seem to think, and that you could have gotten control. But the fact is that neither Paul nor Earl stepped in to help you regain control. That is something you need to take up with them in light of their promise, and I’ll go with you, if you need me to.”

“At the same time, I think you have ignored the fact that you are the pastor. Assume control and you will be surprised how people react to the fact that the pastor is speaking. Take charge, man! You literally have a bully pulpit. Use it when appropriate.”

Rex’s eyes were a bit wider, and Red realized that he had begun to use his parade ground voice.

“Too much,” he asked?

“No, I’m just a little surprised. I have never liked confrontation, but that is what I hear you suggesting.”

“Wrongamundo, Pastor-san. I am saying that there is a time to confront people when they are wrong. Look at Jesus when he confronted the money lenders in the temple. He had a reason for kicking over a few tables when what they were doing was wrong. That is appropriate. On the other hand, confrontation for confrontation’s sake is just another form of bullying. Just be aware of the difference.”

“One last thing. A church like Graying Pres is sort of like a wild horse that has been running free on the range. If you jerk him up hard the very first time you mount him, you may be able to get control. But if you give him his head and he runs on you, it is going to take balance, anticipation and steady, increasing pressure on the reins to get him to respond.”

“This congregation has been given its head over a number of years. It will not be an easy ride. So, what do you do? Well, balance can be achieved by getting the session on board. Start with Paul and Earl. If you have their ears and their aid, you can begin to get your balance, especially because they know where all the bodies are buried in this congregation. They know the feuds that have smoldered for decades and can help you anticipate the tricky moves that may come as you stay on top of that ol’ horse. Then, as other elders are educated and begin to act like elders of the church and not just bean counters, they can help re-instill discipline in the body. It won’t happen overnight, and you may “get throwed” a couple of times, but you’ll just get back on, and in the end, the wild horse can be tamed and put to the work of the Kingdom. What do you say?”

Rex grinned. “Yippee ki yo ki yay!”

Well! Where can you find a 20X hat in Pennsylvania? Will Rex really wear boots to church tomorrow? Can he lasso this wild gray beast? Who will play the part of Annette in this little saga? Tune in next time for the continuing adventures of Graying Pres.

* Historical note: For those of you who are still just kids, and thus ignorant of the really important events in US history, we who were fortunate enough to see the original Mickey Mouse Club as a first run event know that Spin and Marty were the heroes of a serial about a couple of boys at a summer camp on a dude ranch. When the girl's ranch, complete with the likes of Annette Funicello, was added in the second season, the dreams of every adolescent American boy of the 1950s were just about complete.

THE ADVENTURES OF GRAYING PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH: Pastors Need Pastors, Too

At 6:00 am on Saturday morning, Red picked up Larry Matthews and drove to Men’s Bible Study at the Lion’s Mane Grill.

The “usual suspects” were all there, Larry and Red being the youngest. Pastor Rex led their continued study of Romans, concentrating this week on Romans 13.

After the study ended, the group enjoyed their usual breakfast. As they were preparing to leave, Larry motioned to Red that he was leaving with Dave Duncan. Red and Rex turned to each other and said “Do you have….”

Red paused. “Sorry, go ahead.”

Rex replied, “No, please, continue.”

“Well, I was going to ask if you have a few extra minutes.”

“Wow,” the Pastor smiled. “I was going to ask you the same thing. Let’s drive back to the church, OK?”

When they were settled in the pastor’s study, Rex visibly wilted. “Red, I think I’ve had enough. I have been praying about Monday’s session meeting all week. I feel as if I have failed both God and this congregation. God sent me here to care for this congregation and instead, they are still grounded in the world. I lost control of that meeting, and, you know what, I found that I just didn’t care. I have tried to be the leader I think God wants me to be, but it just doesn’t seem to be enough. That was your first session meeting. What were your reactions?”

Red was stunned. He had been dreading this conversation, and now, he and the Pastor were on the same page. After quickly thanking God for this opportunity, Red sat back and smiled.

“This leadership stuff is hard, isn’t it?”

“You’ve got that right. I don’t know what I am doing wrong, but I just seem to have no effect here.”

“Listen, Rex, you have what I call ‘the American illness.’ We are now a ‘59 minute’ society. The problem is introduced in the first two minutes, followed by the opening credits and the first commercial. We expect the problem to be neatly wrapped up for a happy ending by the end of the hour, with plenty of time for commercials. We are no longer capable of taking the long view—the 40 years in the wilderness view.”

“There was a saying in the Marine Corps,” Red continued. “When you are up to your ass in alligators, it is hard to remember that you came here to drain the swamp.”

Rex’s eyes widened, and then he began to chuckle. “That’s gonna be hard to incorporate into a sermon!”

Red nodded. “You know, I have marveled at your ability to respond to the needs of this congregation. You are there for every problem, every tragedy, every need. But let me ask you this, ‘Who is your pastor?’ To whom do you go to unburden yourself. And I don’t mean God. I know you have a healthy prayer life. But who has He sent to you to be your pastor?”

“Oh, I talk to my seminary roommate every month or so.”

“Not enough, pal. You need someone to bounce ideas off of, to vent with, to hold accountable and be held accountable by. What you need is a Ministry Network.”

“Thanks for reminding me. I need to add that to the docket for the next session meeting.”

“Hold on there, Pastor fella. Glad to hear that the session will be talking about that, but we’re talking about you this morning. You know that Frog’s Neck, Conestoga Road and 2d in Lenapi Trail have formed a Ministry Network, right? Why not contact those pastors and see about getting Graying into the Net. I mean, we are done with all that top down, we’re the Bishop and you had better get used to it, we’re gonna ride you like a horse out at Churchill Downs, mentality with the old denomination. These folks have found a new way to be the church, at the lowest level where mission and ministry have always happened. We need to be part of that—and it gives you local support. It gives you a pastor.”

“Let me guess,” Rex said. “You’ve been surfing the net again.”

Red smiled back. “Oh, a little. I like the idea that we can remain traditionally presbyterian, while losing the career bureaucrats and corporate business model of management. A Ministry Network ‘is a relational connection between congregations and their leaders who ordinarily share a common geographic proximity. The Ministry Network does not exist for itself but to serve its constituent congregations in their respective works of ministry and mission. Congregations will be healthier when their spiritual leaders are joined in close friendships of mutual support, trust and encouragement and accountability. Such relationships create a natural opportunity for sharing resources, fostering spiritual growth, offering encouragement, and providing theological, moral and missional accountability. Congregations will also be healthier when they are able to link together in some form of common mission: sharing strengths to compensate for weaknesses, sharing wisdom to offset ignorance, and sharing in collaboration to offset individualism.’”

“But for our conversation this morning, the real value of the Ministry Network lies in the Pastors’ Covenant Group. Made up of all pastors, pastoral candidates, parish associates, visitation pastors, commissioned lay pastors and commissioned lay pastor candidates in active ministry in a congregation, and retired pastors, it meets at least once per quarter [and in many instances, once per month or even once a week] for worship, prayer, study, mutual support, accountability, and ministry planning. . . . It is what the presbytery used to be before it got bogged down in the worship of polity and Roberts.”

“But I already have too many meetings as it is,” Pastor Rex sighed.

“There are meetings and then there are meetings. That’s what I wanted to discuss with you. You often allow the session to avoid the hard work of leadership that is theirs to perform. Ruling Elders and the Teaching Elder are equals. At best, you are primer inter pares because you are designated as moderator and you have certain specifically assigned duties that the session cannot usurp. But when you let the session treat you like a hired hand, foisting off on you their responsibility, you are bound to wear yourself out.”

“No, Pastor, being part of a Ministry Network may be the grease that reduces the friction in your professional and spiritual life.”


Well! How will Pastor Rex react? What will the session say when they hear what Red has said? Has anyone at Graying other than Red actually read the Book of Order? What is a Ministry Network and from where did it come? Tune in next time for the continuing adventures of Graying Pres.

THE ADVENTURES OF GRAYING PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH: The Survivors Write Doctrine!

After school, Red, Mary and the children hurried home to finish homework in time to leave for “Family Night” at Graying Pres.

Family Night was one of pastor Rex’s gifts to Graying Pres. At the church in Missouri where he had served as Associate Pastor, a concerted effort was made to have as many functions on Wednesday night as possible. To encourage attendance, a basic catered dinner was served for a nominal donation. Choir practice, children’s choir, youth group meetings, and a men’s and a women’s Bible study followed dinner. Some committees also met.

Pastor Rex had introduced the idea at Graying Pres, and after a period of adjustment to mitigate the effects of Rule 1 (“We’ve never done that before”), it became a popular evening for the congregation.

The menu for the night was lasagna with Italian bread and salad. After the usual discussion with Thomas regarding the potential that they were being poisoned by “the green stuff,” the Painters settled in at a table with the Matthews family and Paul and Paula Peters.

Paul was eager to talk about the missionaries who would be coming to Graying in two weeks. Home on furlough from their mission in Madrid, Spain, they would be giving a mission minute during worship.

“Red,” Paul said, “I need you to talk to Ellen Klass. I asked her to cancel all the Sunday School classes and assemble them in the Great Hall that Sunday so that the Maneros can give a talk about their work. She said that would be fine, but she wanted them to teach us about some of the techniques they use in mission. That’s just plain silly. The Maneros have been here before and they have a great slide presentation about Spain that really wows the kids--especially the bull fight pictures. Why would we want to miss that and have to sit through another boring class?”

“Well, ya know, Paul, I think Ellen has something there. The Book of Order says that we, as elders, are to initiate the ministry of evangelism as the first business of the Church, and to seek to lead persons to an acceptance of Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior. Our mission field is right here in East Overshoe, but we really don’t know how to be missionaries. Why not ask the experts to help us?”

Paul rolled his eyes. “Oh for Pete’s sake. What are you doing reading the Book of Order? A bunch of people sitting in some office trying to tell us how to run our church? We can muddle through just fine. And evangelism is your problem, not mine. Everyone knows that mission and evangelism are two entirely separate things. You’ve got some strange ideas, boy. Now, will you talk to Ellen or not?”

You could have cut the silence with a knife.

“Paul, one of my instructors at the Infantry Officer’s Course taught us that ‘Doctrine is written by the survivors.’ He meant that people in a tough tactical situation who tried solutions that worked eventually got to ‘sit in some office’ and write it down. Those who tried to muddle through like as not died in the attempt and weren’t around to write doctrine. Let’s give the authors of the Book of Order a chance, eh?”

“Red has a point,” Paula said. “Why not hear him out, Paul. Heaven knows that you are not always right. Remember that trip we took to Baltimore when we were dating? We drove in circles for hours, but Daniel Boone, here, wouldn't stop to ask for directions.” The three wives collapsed into laughter, as they headed off for Bible study.

Well! Will Paul be willing to try a new way of leading? Will the Session agree to a training program? Will Thomas survive eating “the green stuff?” And why do wives always stick up for one another? Tune in next time when these and other burning questions will be answered—-except for the inscrutable wife stuff--in the further Adventures of Graying Pres.

THE ADVENTURES OF GRAYING PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH: To Recall From Whence We Came

At breakfast the next morning, Red mentioned his list to Mary.

“Why would an elder need to know all of that stuff,” she asked?

Ouch! If that is Mary’s reaction, what will others say? How do I explain this so that people will understand? Ah, yes, back to the beginning—my first day in OCS…….

Graduates of the other services frequently comment on the loving and detailed understanding that Marines have of the history and traditions of their Corps. From Day One in recruit training or officer candidate school, Marines are given a solid foundation in the mores and standards of the organization.

Ask any Marine you know to explain the significance of Tun Tavern or of Bladensburg, or of Derna. Ask the history of the “blood stripe,” or the quatrefoil, or the mameluke sword. He will be able to explain why Dan Daly and Chesty Puller and Carlos Hathcock are still standard bearers of the Corps. And, deep down, he will carry a visceral desire to never, ever, let down “those who have gone before.”

From the beginning, recruits and candidates learn from whence hath come the Marine Corps and they understand that they must never stray from those standards.

“Well, m’dear, it’s like this,” Red responded. “My first Commanding Officer once told us about a conversation he had with his son, an Air Force ROTC cadet. It was on the day that Jimmy Doolittle died. Doolittle was the legendary Army officer who came up with the idea of an early attack on the Japanese home islands just a month or two after the sneak attack on Pearl Harbor. He recruited a volunteer squadron of B-25 pilots and air crew who trained to fly land-based bombers from aircraft carriers. He was awarded the Medal of Honor.”

“When Doolittle died, the Colonel called his son at school. ‘Will your ROTC unit be conducting any kind of memorial service,’ he asked?”

“‘Oh, you know, Dad, the Air Force is not all that big on that history stuff. We’re not like the Marines.’ Truer words were never spoken.”

“The Colonel replied ‘Well, that’s a shame. When you are in the lead bomber en route to Baghdad with the mission of knocking out the air defense headquarters, when you know that you absolutely must hit your target or the guys behind you will be sitting ducks, and your airplane is shot up and on fire, it seems to me that it helps to have Doolittle and Tibbets and Bud Day right there in the cockpit with you, saying, ‘OK, lad, it’s a bad deal, but you can do it. Don’t let us down!’”

“In the same way, when elders have a basic understanding of the history of the Church in general and the Reformed and Presbyterian tradition in particular, they are better able to perform the really important duties of their office. When they know how to read the Bible and are introduced to the framework for Christian thought, including theology (the doctrine of God), anthropology (the doctrine of the human condition), Christology (the doctrine of the person and work of Christ), soteriology (the doctrine of the means of salvation) the doctrine of the church, including the sacraments and ecclesiology, and eschatology (the doctrine of the last things), they are better prepared to take on the responsibility for the spiritual life and health of the congregation. When they have a basic understanding of church government under the Presbyterian system of governance and the role and duties of the officers of the Church, they are better prepared to prioritize the demands placed on them and to decline to take up those things that are better left to others in the congregation. Finally, instruction in the life and character of the officer ensures that they have been instructed in the standards that are expected of them—so that they may never let down those who have gone before.”

“It seems to me that churches run into trouble when the ‘leaders’ do not know exactly what is expected of them. A uniform, formalized training program ensures that all of the leaders are ‘singing from the same sheet of music,’ and that they are more likely to put their emphasis on those things that are most important.”

“You’re probably right,” Mary responded. “But does anyone at Graying really care?”

Good question. Will anyone care? Will the elders be willing to take the training course? Can anyone tell me what happened at Tun Tavern? Or why you never open a can of apricots in an amtrac? Tune in next time when these and other burning questions will be debated in the further Adventures of Graying Pres.

THE ADVENTURES OF GRAYING PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH: School bells ring.

Later that evening, Red thought back to the conclusions he had reached over the past few days. It all comes back to the need for elders to do the job, to execute the office of elder.

He picked up his copy of Leadership Training Guide—A Resource for Pastors, Elders and Church Leaders. As he thumbed through the book, he looked at the detailed questions that were posed.

How many of the session could answer most of these, he wondered?

--What issue was at stake at the Councils of Nicea and Chalcedon?
--Who were some of the principals in the First Great Awakening?
--What does it mean to be Reformed?
--What was the effect on Presbyterians of the [1801] Agreement with the Congregationalists?
--What do we mean when we say that Scripture is inerrant? Is this the same as saying that we take the Bible literally?
--What is the method of interpreting Scripture used by Dispensationalists?
--In what sense is the doctrine of the Trinity a guide in what not to believe?
--Summarize the Covenant of Grace.
-- What is “imputed righteousness”?
-- What is the “kenosis” passage? What does “kenosis” mean?
--Explain the major theories of the atonement.
--What does each letter of TULIP stand for? What is the meaning of each term?
--What are two differences between justification and sanctification?
--What is the filling of the Holy Spirit?
--What are the marks of a true church?
--What does it do to a sacrament if the person who administers it is not of good character?
--What is the primary difference among premillennialists, postmillennialists, and amillennialists? Briefly describe the different positions.

Not that many, I bet! But how to remedy that? That is the $64,000 question.

Tune in tomorrow when these and other burning questions will be debated in the further Adventures of Graying Pres.

THE ADVENTURES OF GRAYING PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH: The Shepherd Of The Flock

As Red was driving to work the next morning, he began to think about the role of the pastor and both his contribution to the problems of the congregation and the solutions to those problems. He knew that the Pastor, while an elder of the church, had special responsibilities and functions within the congregation.

I remember my Dad saying that when the church became a business and the pastorate a profession, we really got off track, he recalled.

For centuries, the pastorate was viewed as a calling, and pastors were considered to be set aside by God. Then, in the 1960s and early 70s, the model changed. Church was a business, and it required “professional” management. Pastors were “hired” to act as the CEO and the elders became the directors who oversaw the management of the business. Many graduates of seminary aimed for service in the bureaucracy of denominations rather than taking a call to a parish. At least one seminary in a major, but declining, denomination actually created a joint degree program in which an individual could obtain a Master of Divinity degree and a Juris Doctorate.

Ugh! Talk about Pharisees. Folks who intentionally become lawyer ministers and then poison a denomination by emphasizing strict interpretation and observance of polity over Scripture.

Presbyteries, historically local and staffed by “volunteers,” became populated by professional bureaucrats. Job descriptions were crafted, staff were hired, and the top down corporate model of governance began to appear. In one major denomination, the principle function of the presbytery was to act as the collection agent for the national denomination, taxing congregations and passing the taxes along to the national bureaucracy.

And we let it happen, Red realized. But, if our pastor is not our CEO, then who is he?

When one is called by a congregation to be the shepherd of that flock, that person shall be called Pastor. As such, the duties of the Pastor shall be to preach and expound the Word, to be God’s prophet to the people and to be the people’s priest before God.

OK. The pastor’s first responsibility is to ensure that the Gospel is rightly preached.

That takes time and study. A prophet is not someone who works off the top of his head. It is the duty of the ruling elders to see that the pastor has the time necessary to carry out that responsibility and to ensure that the members of the congregation understand that.

The Pastor shall lead the people in worship, shall celebrate the Sacraments, shall oversee the education and nurture program of the congregation.” He or she is a spiritual leader, ensuring that the Sacraments are rightly administered. The Pastor oversees the education and nurture program of the congregation.

“Oversee,” Red thought. Now that is an important word.

The Pastor does not perform the programs, he oversees, he supervises, but others are to be designated to carry them out. “Supervise,” the 6th Troop Leading step. Just as important here as in a rifle squad or platoon!

The Pastor with the Ruling Elders shall minister to the sick, the dying, the grieving, the troubled, the poor, and to all those who have need of a Pastor’s care, love, and compassion. With the Ruling Elders, the Pastor shall exercise the joint power of government.”

There it is again. “With the ruling elders.” We are in the business of ministry together.

Of course the pastor, like any leader, must lead by example. So, he or she teaches an occasional Sunday School class. The pastor may lead a Bible study. He visits the sick at home and in hospital, but he does so along with the other elders, not instead of. The ruling elders must never forget that, with the pastor, they are co-equally responsible for the flock. They must covenant with one another to carry the burden of leadership equally, to exercise accountability and discipline, and to back up one another when necessary.

Once again, Red thought, it all comes back to the need for elders to do the job, to execute the office of elder. When we become managers, the flock is in danger.

Red has now pretty much analyzed the issues and problems facing Graying Pres. Can he figure out a way to fix them? Will the session step up and do their job? And why isn’t February 14 the “First Day of Spring?” Pitchers and catchers report to Spring Training on that day—not to “Late Winter Training.” If it is Spring training, it must be Spring!

Tune in next week when these and other burning questions will be debated in the further Adventures of Graying Pres.

THE ADVENTURES OF GRAYING PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH: Called To Sympathy And Service

Red got home just in time to take Sally to her riding lesson. By the time Sally had tacked up Harvey (her horse), completed her lesson, and turned out the horse, they were just able to get home for supper.

After the dishes were done, Red helped Thomas with his math homework and Mary checked over Sally’s work. Mary put the children to bed while Red returned to his study.

This thing is getting to me, he thought. I need to get it summed up so that it can simmer for awhile.

Red began a checklist on his note pad:

Leaders must be educated before they begin to serve.
Session responsible for that education.
Evangelism is the First Business of the Church.
Elders are spiritual leaders first and bureaucrats only as a last resort.
Elders need to learn to delegate to Deacons and Trustees.

So, what is it that Deacons ought to be doing, what are ours actually doing, and what changes ought we consider, Red asked himself?

According to the Book of Order

The office of Deacon as set forth in Scripture is one of compassion, concern for needs, and of serving others. Therefore, the first duty of the Deacon is sympathy and service. Historically, to this office has been given the duty of being the Church’s instrument for the ministry of compassion. Such duties may include the care, maintenance, and preparation of the church and its facilities. Since the Board of Deacons is not a court of the Church and since it is under the authority of the Church Session, to the Deacons both individually and collectively the Church Session may assign from time to time special duties felt to be appropriate to that office.

“The first duty of the Deacon is sympathy and service. Historically, to this office has been given the duty of being the Church’s instrument for the ministry of compassion.”

The Deaconate, then, is an office of action rather than contemplation. While maintaining a prayer list and prayer chain and, perhaps, a card ministry, are signs of compassion, the Deacon should be away from the Church more often than in it.

Visitation to the sick, elderly, and shut-ins is a function that the pastor and the Deacons share. Unfortunately, some churches see the pastor as the "employee" who has been "hired" to relieve the leadership of any of the hard work of ministry. In those churches, a recurring refrain is “We don’t know how to do visits—seminary is supposed to train the pastor for that.” Those are often the churches that also complain because the over-worked pastor is not regularly “spending enough time” on his sermons, is not regularly appearing at committee meetings, youth events, Bible study groups, and is not available to meet with people seeking counseling.

The Deaconate ought to be the first level of visitation. It can be the eyes and ears for the pastor and session, alerting the elders and pastor when they, too, need to visit members. It is more than making sure that the altar flowers go to someone, Red realized. The Deacons ought to be out and about on a regular basis. That requires screening and training.

“Such duties may include the care, maintenance, and preparation of the church and its facilities.”

In small churches, the Deacons may have these duties. In larger churches in which the corporation has elected trustees, supervision of the Sexton and oversight of the care and maintenance of the church are better assigned to the trustees. But if there is a “Property Committee” on the Board of Trustees, election or appointment ex officio of one or more Deacons to that committee may be appropriate.

Deacons ought to be prominently involved in the Worship Ministry for the care and preparation of sanctuary for worship.

But the Deacons must be sure that they do not allow those duties to replace their first duty to care for the members who are in need of care and compassion, Red thought.

And the Deacons are not allowed to pick and choose their functions.

Since the Board of Deacons is not a court of the Church and since it is under the authority of the Church Session, to the Deacons both individually and collectively the Church Session may assign from time to time special duties felt to be appropriate to that office.

[The session is responsible] to oversee the work of the Board of Deacons and to review its minutes at least semiannually unless otherwise provided for by the Church Session. It is also desirable for the Church Session to call a joint meeting at least semi-annually to discuss matters of common interest, although each body must act separately on matters under its charge.

“And that is a key consideration,” Red muttered to himself.

“. . . each body must act separately on matters under its charge.” The Session must exercise discipline and avoid the urge to micro-manage the Deaconate and the Board of Trustees. Once the Session delegates authority to the other boards, it must allow them to exercise that authority so long as they do not exceed the scope of their authority. Otherwise, there are two or three groups performing the same function, while other essential areas, such as the spiritual health and development of the church, go untended.

And the delegation of authority to Deacons is especially appropriate because of their ordained status. Where a representative of committee may be viewed by some as an interloper, the attendance of an ordained officver of the church carries with it the weight of ordination and call.

Once again, it all comes back to screening and training.

The Church Session of the particular church shall examine each candidate for ordination to the office of Ruling Elder or Deacon. The Candidate shall be examined on personal experience of the saving grace of God in Jesus Christ and progress in spiritual growth. Each Candidate for ordination shall be examined on the following matters: the Faith of the Church, the Sacraments, the Government of the Church, the Discipline of the Church, the Worship of the Church, the History of the Church, and an understanding of the office to which one is elected.

Screening. Candidates must be screened before they are elected and installed. Those who are not genuinely called to the office to which they have been nominated must be identified and, if training cannot correct the identified deficiencies, they should be asked to stand aside.

“The Church Session shall make provision for courses of instruction in the following matters: Church government, the Sacraments, the Faith of the Church, the Worship of the Church, the Discipline of the Church, the History of the Church, and an understanding of the office to which one is elected.”

Training. In too many instances, nominating committees use one of two models. The first is the “It is X’s turn to serve.” Election to office is viewed as a reward to length of membership or representation of some faction within the congregation.

The other model is the “just find someone to serve” model. The nominating committee takes anyone who will volunteer to serve whether or not they are suited to the office. This model is most likely to ignore, or to be ignorant of, the obligation to screen for a sense of call.

Once again, Red thought, we are back to the need for screening and for education. And education must also include the nominating committee.

Red looked at his list.

Leaders must be educated before they begin to serve.
Session responsible for that education.
Evangelism is the First Business of the Church.
Elders are spiritual leaders first and administrators only as a last resort.
Elders need to learn to delegate to Deacons and Trustees.

He added:

Sense of call must be identified early.
Candidates must understand what they will be asked to do.
Session must then make sure that the committees and boards do their job, but must not try to do it for them.
It is better to be short-handed than to have people elected who are unwilling to take upon themselves the obligations of their office.

Mary stuck her head through the door. “CSI is on. You gonna watch some goo and gore before we go to sleep?”

Red put his notes aside. Yeah. The new guy who replaced Grissom may need my help tonight.


Well, what more must Red consider? Are most elders ready to delegate? How many bodies will the CSI team find tonight?

Join us again tomorrow for more of the Adventures of Graying Pres.

THE ADVENTURES OF GRAYING PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH: Spreading The Load

After school the next day, Red went for his usual run with Larry Matthews, a member of Graying Pres and fellow teacher at East Overshoe High School. Larry and Cindy, his wife, teach the “Toddler” class for the three children at GPC in the 2 to 4 age group.

Red mentioned the day-long study that he had undertaken on the snow day. After he finished his description, Larry asked “What are the other duties of the elders?”

“The other duties with regard to the spiritual life are pretty general. The session organizes itself to advance the ministry of the Church and the mission of the congregation. It may order special offerings, special days of prayer and fasting, special days of worship and other matters that benefit the spiritual life of the people. And it has a catch-all responsibility ‘to do whatever else may be necessary for the spread of the Gospel, the edification of the members, the well being of the church, the advancement of the Kingdom, and the growth in grace of all.’”

“The problem that I see,” Red continued, “is that this session has completely ignored its main responsibilities to educate and discipline itself and to oversee the spiritual growth of the congregation. Instead, it has gotten itself wrapped around the administrative axle.”

“How so,” asked Larry?

“Well, the session has five what I would call ‘general’ administrative duties. It receives members; keeps the rolls; dismisses, restores, grants affiliation, or removes members; determines the budget of the church and the benevolence objectives of the congregation; and determines policies regarding the use of the property and facilities of the congregation. None of these is all that difficult if the session has its priorities straight, but these are the things that we seem to be hung up on. I mean we spent time arguing over whether a clock was included in a line item on the budget and whether a committee, chaired by a single elder, could unilaterally control a huge chunk of the budget.”

“But aren’t we a Pennsylvania corporation with trustees,” Larry gasped? Red realized that in his emotional state, he was pushing the run. Larry was also a former Marine, but Red had run him pretty hard. He dialed things back a click.

“Absolutely. For instance, we determine the budget of the church and the benevolence objectives of the congregation, but once we do so, the only time we ought to get involved in the business of the corporation or the Board of Deacons is if they depart from the budget. For example, if the Worship Ministry wants to buy a clock out of its budgeted funds, who are we to say ‘No’? Of course, if they try to hang the clock in the sanctuary, they have probably overstepped their authority unless the session approves. And the pastor is free to ignore the clock!”

“I seem to remember when I was in OCS that leaders delegate and supervise, but they let the guy with the responsibility for a particular function do his job. The leader steps in only to prevent serious harm or to correct a misunderstanding of the original orders. Isn’t that right?” Larry put on a spurt of energy and ran ahead.

“Right on, Artillery Boy,” Red responded, kicking a little and catching up. “But when the elders are not properly educated and trained to do the hard work of ministry and spiritual oversight, it is easier to become micro-managers than to take the corrective action necessary to do their own job. And the Deacons and trustees have let it happen. Easier for them, too. But the task of the Deacons is a heavy one in and of itself. If they are doing their job, the two groups of ordained leaders will focus on the first duty of the church – evangelism. They will be fully consumed by the task of leading people to the acceptance of Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, and caring for the members of our flock who need it. The nitty gritty temporal business stuff can and ought to be handled by the trustees.”

“Will the Deacons do it, Grunt,” Larry asked? They slowed to a walk outside the gym.

“That, my man, is the sixty four dollar question.”

Well, it looks as if it is time for the Deacons to sit on Red’s bullseye. What are their duties and responsibilities? What should they be doing? What will Mary have for dinner?

For answers to these and other pressing questions, tune in tomorrow for the further Adventures of Graying Pres.

THE ADVENTURES OF GRAYING PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH: How Do We Worship?

As Red put a new pot of coffee on the fire, he saw that Mary and the kids were outside. Sally and Mary were building a snow man and Thomas was hard at work on a snow fort. Quickly pulling on his boots and coat, Red joined them.

Two hours later, snowy and tired, they tromped back into the house. Mary took the tuna casserole from the oven and the family sat down to supper. It was not until after the kids were bathed, prayers were said, and he and Mary had their evening devotional time that Red was able to return to his study.

If we are “to oversee the worship of the congregation in accordance with the Book of Worship,” what are the standards applicable to the task? What is required of each member to ensure that our worship of God is in accord with the Book of Worship?

The Book of Worship gives clear guidance about our worship together.

Only God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are to receive such worship. Such worship shall include the reverent and attentive reading of the Scriptures, the sound preaching and conscientious hearing of the Word, and singing of psalms and hymns, the proper administration and right receiving of the sacraments, and prayer with thanksgiving. . . .

It is incumbent upon all Christians to gather on the Lord’s Day for worship that it might be kept holy unto the Lord. Affairs should be so arranged and influence so used that no one will be kept unnecessarily from worshiping God or observing the day in an appropriate manner.

No Christian should come to the Lord’s Day unprepared. . . . Thoughts should not be concerned with worldly activities, but should focus on the things of the Lord. Plans should be made to participate in public and private worship. . . . All should be present at the appointed hour, unite in all the parts of the worship, and depart only when the benediction has been pronounced. . . .

Many of us have lost sight of the basic understanding about worship: our common worship must always be focused on God, not on our own likes and dislikes, Red thought. We are present to worship Him, not to be worshiped or entertained!

The session’s duty of oversight the congregation’s worship, when coupled with its duty to monitor the spiritual conduct of the members becomes clearer when we consider the order of common worship. The people of God are no longer bound by rigid rules and regulations for worship. The Reformation was spawned by the immersion of the Roman Catholic Church in man-made rules and rituals that had no Biblical basis or support. We must not let new rules that satisfy individual preferences take on a similar patina of law.

The people are to remember to do all things decently and in order that all may participate and God may be glorified. For the Evangelical Presbyterian Church, this means no particular church is required to follow any predetermined or rigid form of worship. However, it also means that worship should be conducted in such a way that persons are not hindered in their worship and that it not be an offense to God.

The public worship of God is not to be carelessly or willfully neglected or forsaken.

The insistence of some that a particular “style” of music or a particular order of worship must be followed as a precondition for their participation is a sign of inappropriate spiritual conduct that must be the subject to appropriate discipline by the session. Worship is not a matter of style—it is a matter of disciplined hearts and minds offering to God that which is His due.

Red shook his head. That means that if an elder hears a member say he or she will attend Sunday services only when a particular form of music or a particular order of worship is employed, the elder or the session must exercise Godly discipline to correct that defect in the member. I wonder if we are up to that task?

The Pastor, while advised to consult with the Church Session, has the duty and responsibility to determine the order, sequence, elements, and proportion of the service that each shall have in public worship. . . . All who come to worship should actively participate. The worship should be so designed that there is common participation when all share in the various elements of praise to God. Participation by various members of the particular congregation is encouraged to demonstrate that worship is a privilege of all and not relegated to a select few.

Thus, the pastor and session must ensure that the common worship of the congregation meets the needs of all members. No particular person or group of people has a veto with respect to the common worship of congregation. Those who take a “my way or the highway” approach must be the subject of Biblical discipline.

But that is not all, Red thought. Next, we have to consider the Word of God in Worship.

The ordinary worship of God always includes the reverent and attentive reading of the Scriptures. The Scriptures are for the sure establishment of the Church, as well as its comfort, and protects it from the corruption of the flesh, the malice of Satan and the world. Scripture is given by the inspiration of God and is to be the rule of faith and life for all Christians. Reading of the Word should be done with a sense of awe and reverence. The choice of passages and their length to be read from Scripture belongs to the Pastor. Worship should be conducted in such a way that persons are not hindered in their worship.

When the Word is read, we have a duty to consider those who are less familiar with Scripture in order to aid them in maturing in their knowledge of the Bible.

We also have to consider the sound preaching of the Word.

The ordinary worship of God always includes the sound preaching and conscientious hearing of the Word in obedience to God. Such preaching should always open the Word of God in such a way that the hearer can respond with clear understanding and simple faith. In dealing with matters in which there is a question about the true and full sense of any Scripture, the Preacher is to remember that the only infallible rule of interpretation of Scripture is Scripture itself.

The sermon should be related to the particular congregation and the individuals within it. It should address the real issues of that community of faith and should include practical application to life. It should be framed in such terms that all present can understand. . . .

Since the reading of Scriptures requires attentiveness and the sermon conscientious hearing, the worshipers have a duty also. As God speaks through the Word as it is read and preached, cutting hearts, giving guidance in the Christian life, building up in the faith, the worshiper has a solemn duty to be open and receptive to God’s revelation. Even as the Preacher is to make proper preparation, so the worshiper is to be prepared in every way to hear and respond. While all of the elements of public worship are important and should not be neglected, no worship is complete without the reading and preaching of the Word. For this reason, the Pastor and Church Session should be careful to protect the pulpit in each particular church that the Word be truly preached. No person should be permitted to preach to a particular church without the invitation of the Pastor and the Church Session, or the Church Session if there is no Pastor.

The sound preaching of the Word is an essential part of worship. Attempts to limit the pastor to a particular amount of time for his or her sermon are improper. If the Word can be properly preached in ten minutes this Sunday, fine. But addressing the real issues of congregation and providing practical application to life may take longer. In that case, the congregation owes God and his spokesman a solemn duty to be open and receptive to God’s revelation.

Whew! At least we are spared some of this—Pastor Rex preaches from the Word. I wish my sister and her church paid closer attention to sound preaching. Her story-telling pastor who is “so entertaining” is doing no service to himself or his congregation.

And then there is the issue of music in Worship. Red groaned. I sometimes wish I was a Quaker!

Singing of psalms with grace in the heart is a necessary and indispensable part of the common worship of the people of God. The whole congregation is the true choir singing praises and giving glory to God. For this reason, corporate singing is not to be neglected. . . .

Music is not an end in itself, but should serve the whole purpose of giving glory and praise to God. Where there is a choir auxiliary to the congregation, it should be remembered that it is representing the whole congregation before God and is not performing for the people. . . Those who participate in a choir inevitably represent a special calling in the life of a congregation and should exhibit a gracious Christian life that brings honor to God. Participants in the choir should . . . conduct themselves in such a way that their lives will not be a barrier or hindrance to those who worship.

The Minister is responsible for the order for worship, for leading the service, and for determining the parts of worship along with the emphasis given to each. The Minister has final authority over all, including the music. Where there is a music director or other such person working in music, that person shall always consult with the Minister concerning the music or worship.

. . . The words of hymns should be appropriate and reflect Reformed theology. It is appropriate to include contemporary hymns that are in keeping with the life of the particular congregation. . . . . The use of various musical instruments in worship is appropriate unless disapproved by the Church Session.

Music is not an end in itself. And yet, in congregation after congregation, the most conflict and dissension centers around music. “What songs will we sing?” “Who will choose the songs?” "What style—traditional or contemporary—will we use?”

And cliques can develop. Worship ministry teams or choirs may attempt to usurp the pastor’s authority to select the musical portion of the worship service. All of which are indicia of a breakdown in discipline.

How often to we hear choir members or praise bands speak in terms of their performance for the congregation—as if the congregation is an audience?

Red sighed. The concept that the choir or praise band is to entertain or perform for the congregation is antithetical to the true role of music and musicians in worship. They are to lead the people in a part of the worship of God. There is another area in which the session must exercise oversight and discipline, he thought.

Many a choir has a tendency to assume responsibilities and authority that it does not have. The session needs to be on the lookout for such thinking and nip it in the bud.

The next issue is prayer in Worship. Fortunately, we seem to have that down pretty well. But what about the offerings of the people of God?

The acknowledgment that God is the Author of every good gift and that His people are but stewards of His grace should find expression in the offerings of the congregation. In returning to God a proper stewardship of His gifts, the congregation is to be reminded that they are also held accountable not only for a proper stewardship, but for the use of all they have and are. The giving of the people of God in response to His goodness and love should find expression in three principal areas.

Many folks today assume that they fulfill their duty to make offerings to God by writing a check. They forget that the first duty of the Christian is to offer self to God, heart, mind, body, and soul. Each service may properly include a time for rededication or for commitment. Only after so doing are their tithes and offerings a visible expression of their commitment as believers to the extension of the Gospel, the work of ministry, and the support of the Church of Jesus Christ. And they also need to know that God desires that each Christian respond to His call to service in ministry to others.

That, too, is part of the duty of the session to educate the congregation.

Red stretched. “OK,” he said to himself. “As elders, we need to understand the true nature of worship so that we can use it to measure the spiritual health of the congregation. Where, as here, there are obvious signs of a lack of spiritual health, we must exhibit the moral courage to exercise discipline to bring the body back to the path of faith that God desires us to walk.”

“I’ve had enough for one day. I’ll be glad to be back to school tomorrow. I need to let some of this sink in.”

Sooooo. After a long day, Red has made a start. What else can he discern? What other factions can he upset? Tune in tomorrow for the further Adventures of Graying Presbyterian Church.

THE ADVENTURES OF GRAYING PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH: Elder Or Bureaucrat?

Sitting back down, Red considered what elders would learn about their office through training. What are the distinct duties of the elders which will foster the spiritual health of the congregation?

The first responsibility leapt off the page! “To initiate the ministry of evangelism as the first business of the Church, and to seek to lead persons to an acceptance of Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior.”

The first duty is evangelism. The “business of the church” is evangelism. Seeking every opportunity to lead people to the acceptance of Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior is the FIRST Responsibility of the Church.

Looks like my ministry team has got a lot of work to do! When we let clocks and line items and guitars and unseemly bickering to get in the way of witness, we are a failed institution. If we allow Graying to be inhospitable, ignoring visitors because we need to talk “business,” we are failures, because the first business of the Church is to open wide the doors of the church to all who come through them.

Next came “to remind parents of the responsibility of presenting their children for Baptism, and to provide instruction as indicated in the Book of Worship.” Looking at the elements of instruction regarding baptism, it became clear to Red that the level of instruction requires preparation

Well, sure, Red thought. First we train the leaders and then the leaders ensure that the rest of the congregation gets the education and training necessary to become witnesses to the Good news, to become evangelists.

The requirement that ruling elders remind parents that their children ought to be baptized and instruct them about the nature of baptism and the obligations that parents undertake is a biggie. Red recalled that the Session’s casual, matter-of-fact approval of a baptism request at the past meeting was pro forma. The Session did not confirm that the parents understood the nature of baptism.

A lot of young parents seek to have their children baptized for the wrong reasons. Some view baptism as a magical rite. Others know that they should do it, but simply do not know why. The elders must be ready and able to help parents understand the sacrament of baptism. The Book of Worship says parents should know and understand that :

Sacraments are holy signs and seals of the Covenant of Grace, representing Christ and all His benefits. They confirm our relationship to Him and represent a visible difference between those who belong to the Church and the rest of the world. There is a spiritual or sacramental relationship in the sacraments between the sign (water and bread and wine) and what is signified.

The power revealed in the sacraments does not reside in them or in the one administering them,but is in the work of the Holy Spirit and in the promise of God who gives benefits to those who worthily receive them. Thus, the sacraments are powerful and effective in the life of the recipient because of God’s Word which instituted them. For this reason the sacraments should not be neglected or omitted.

Baptism is a sacrament of the New Testament, ordained by Jesus Christ. By the act of baptism, a person becomes a part of the visible Church, for it is a sign and a seal of the Covenant of Grace for believers and their children. As a sign it proclaims God’s forgiveness and our redemption in Jesus Christ. As a seal, God marks us as adopted children of our heavenly Father. It indicates our engrafting into Christ, our rebirth, the remission of sins, and our ability by the power of the Spirit to walk in newness of life. This sacrament is to be continued by God’s people until the end of the world.

God’s grace and salvation are not inseparably connected to this sacrament. Some who are baptized will be lost and some not baptized will be saved. Nevertheless, it is a great sin to make light of or to neglect this sacrament. A great benefit is lost when baptism is neglected, for God promises to bless His people through this sacrament. The effectiveness of baptism is not tied to the moment it is administered, yet God who keeps His promises confers His grace according to His own will and in His appointed time.

Finally, that the parents affirmatively assume vows of duty and obligation on behalf of their child by:

acknowledging the child’s, need of the cleansing blood of Jesus Christ, and the renewing grace of the Holy Spirit;

claiming God’s covenant promises and benefits for the child and by faith looking to the Lord Jesus Christ for the salvation of the child as they do their own;

unreservedly dedicating the child to God, and promising by relying on God’s power and grace through the Holy Spirit to live an exemplary life before the child;

committing themselves to pray with and for the child, to teach the child the Scriptures and the great articles of our faith in Jesus Christ; and

promising to use every means provided by God, including faithful participation in the life of the Church, to bring the child up in the loving discipline of the Lord.

It occurred to Red that this meant that parents seeking to have their child baptized ought to be examined by the session every bit as much as prospective new members to ensure that they truly understood the magnitude of the obligation they are undertaking. Probably at a separate meeting called for that purpose alone, he thought.

The ruling elders are also responsible “to oversee the educational program of the congregation, and to determine its literature.”

How often does the session as a whole meet with the Discipleship Ministry team? When was the last time that the session examined all of the curricula being used in the church to ensure that it is Scripturally based and Reformed in nature?

It’s probably not a big deal (I hope) for Sunday School, but there are Bible studies and other small groups of the congregation that use educational literature, too. Whew!

Next, the session is “to oversee the worship of the congregation in accordance with the Book of Worship, including the time and place of worship, special services, the music program, and the celebration of the sacraments. This shall not infringe on the responsibility of the Pastor in the selection of hymns, Scriptures, sermon, administration of the sacraments, or other duties that are incumbent on the office of Pastor.”

Verrrrry interesting! All those folks who think that their little fiefdoms—the choir, some Sunday School classes, even some parts of the youth ministry—are free from oversight by the session need education in this regard.

And then there is this one: “When there is no pastor, to convene the people for worship on the Lord’s Day, offering prayers, praise, reading the Scriptures and teaching thereof. It is also appropriate for one member to give an exhortation or to read a sermon by some Minister of the Word of the Church.”

The Book of Worship sets forth the doctrinal understanding of worship.

The acceptable way of worshiping God is established by God Himself. Proper worship is defined and outlined in God’s revealed will and is to be followed in giving glory to Him. True and proper worship therefore finds its prescription in Holy Scripture. Only God the Father, Son, and Holy Spirit are to receive such worship. Such worship shall include the reverent and attentive reading of the Scriptures, the sound preaching and conscientious hearing of the Word, and singing of psalms and hymns, the proper administration and right receiving of the sacraments, and prayer with thanksgiving. Such public worship of God shall also include times of solemn prayer and fasting, as well as special days of praise and thanksgiving. All worship should at all times and in all places be performed in a holy and religious manner. The public worship of God is not to be carelessly or willfully neglected or forsaken.

The public worship of God is not to be carelessly or willfully neglected or forsaken. Worship requires attentive planning, reverent consideration, and joyful exercise. It is not to become an afterthought. It is not a show or a time for unthinking ritual. It is giving God that which is His alone.

Well, if the session has major responsibility for the worship life of the congregation, that is another area for which it needs education in order to then educate the congregation and correct poor spiritual conduct.

Elders need to understand The Lord’s Day, the obligation of each member to prepare and gathering for worship, the order of common worship, and the role of the Pastor, his or her duty and responsibility to determine the order, sequence, elements, and proportion of the service that each shall have in public worship. They need to understand the use and centrality of the Word of God in Worship, the definition and necessity of sound preaching of the Word, the place of music in worship, all aspects of prayer in worship, and the breadth and depth of the offerings of the people of God.

That’s a lot to chew on. Red yawned. He stood and stretched. Look at all of the complex areas for which we are responsible. And consider all the time we wasted on Monday night, deliberating about clocks and budget line items and other stuff that has nothing to do with the spiritual health of the congregation or “the first business of the Church.”

Coffee. I need coffee before I see what other jobs we have that we are not doing.

Can any one group actually undertake the responsibilities assigned to elders? Can education of the session and the congregation help? Can Red find a fresh pot of coffee at this time of day? Join us again tomorrow as we continue to follow the adventures of Graying Pres.

THE ADVENTURES OF GRAYING PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH: “We Sweat In Peacetime So We Don’t Bleed In War.”

After lunch, Red returned to his study. He began to consider the nine duties of Ruling Elders with respect to Spiritual Supervision.

The first is a responsibility to monitor the spiritual conduct of the members, and to take action when appropriate according to procedures set forth in the Book of Discipline.

That’s a pretty broad area, he thought. How can it be broken down so as to be manageable? Well, in the words of the Shorter Catechism, are we, individually and collectively, “glorifying God?”

Some adopt as their standard, “What would Jesus do?” But Jesus was perfect and we can never approach His perfection in this world. Perhaps we ought to ask of our conduct, “Would I do this if Jesus was standing right here with me? (He is, of course, but we often act as if he has stepped away for a moment.) Is this conduct worthy of the price He paid for my sin?”

What symptoms have I seen of poor spiritual conduct, Red wondered? Then what can I do about it?

Comments from Sunday came rolling back: “There’s a guitar in the sanctuary. Are we having a hootenanny or a church service? . . .We don’t approve of hootenannies here at Graying. I’m just going to head home. Another Sunday ruined.”

“Well, I certainly didn’t approve that performance. Sally and the choir have always selected the music for the day’s performance. I’m always glad when our performance comes early in the service. I can beat the rush.”

“Why can’t he stay on schedule? He was 5 minutes long. Darn it, the Eagles are playing and he picks today to go long.”

“Who are those people? Do we know them? What are they doing here? Do they know that we don’t need a nursery? Where will their children be during the service. I do so hate it when crying babies disturb the service.”

We have allowed the focus to shift from God to ourselves. Jesus said, "You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind. This is the great and first commandment. And a second is like it: You shall love your neighbor as yourself. On these two commandments depend all the Law and the Prophets."

When we allow ourselves to worry about music styles, or whose “turf” is being invaded, when we are unwilling to give God a measly 59 minutes, when a football game or a “performance” is our focus, we really cannot claim to be worshipping God with all that we are. Are we worshipping the sovereign God or are we putting on a timed performance?

Monday’s meeting was not much better: Suzanne Tomlinson wanted to be spiritually fed, a good thing, but only when it fit her schedule. She also wanted “a better quality of visitor,” one who would know where to find a passage of Scripture without being directed to it. No one corrected her.

A number of people had complained that an hour and 4 minutes of “worship” was too long and inconvenient. As Cherise Smith had commented, “We have simply got to find a way to stay on schedule. The next thing you know, we’ll be back to an hour and fifteen minutes of worship and we all know what that does to attendance.” No one cautioned against setting our limits on the worship which is God’s due.

Then there was the “let George do it” attitude towards who would bring the Good News to a group of people who openly wanted to hear it. Boy, that’s a sign of poor spiritual conduct.

By now, Red was humming “Trouble in River City” from The Music Man.

But what’s the solution, he thought? It all goes back to the fact that the Ruling Elders have not been properly trained concerning the office of ruling elder. Leadership is hard work, but it can be learned. If we don’t understand our role, if we can’t recognize the symptoms of poor spiritual conduct—actually poor spiritual health—in ourselves, how can we monitor the spiritual conduct of the members, and take action when appropriate according to procedures set forth in the Book of Discipline.

It was as if his Platoon Sergeant from OCS had entered the room. “Train as you will fight. What we practice in the easy days of peacetime will be instinctive in the chaos of combat,” he shouted. “It is time for the elders—ruling and teaching--to go back to school!”

THE ADVENTURES OF GRAYING PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH: Personal Leadership Responsibilities of Elders

Looking through his study materials, Red found that Ruling Elders have 18 enumerated responsibilities. Breaking them down, he found three Personal Leadership Responsibilities, nine duties with respect to Spiritual Supervision, and six broad Administrative Responsibilities.

The first of the Personal Leadership Responsibilities is an obligation to prepare both themselves and prospective ruling elders and deacons for service. “Those who serve well must be prepared for such service, and it is the duty of the Church Session of each particular church to offer adequate opportunity to those elected to office to prepare them for their ministry.”

"The Church Session shall confer with each person elected to office in the particular church to determine if that person feels called to office and is willing to serve faithfully.”

Well, he thought, that sure didn’t happen. The Session apparently attempted to “delegate” its authority to the nominating committee. Recalling his classes at The Basic School, he knew that while authority may, under proper circumstances, be delegated, responsibility cannot.

In this case, the delegation of authority was inadequate. Neither the Nominating Committee nor the Session met with the candidates prior to their installation. When the representative of the Nominating Committee called, he had missed some important clues:

She was rushed. "Red, we are in a real bind. We a short an elder and none of the resting elders wants to come back on session.” The office of ruling elder was being treated as a hereditary office unless previously ordained elders declined to actively serve. Did the session meet with those resting elders to determine why they no longer had a sense of call? From a conversation with Ruby Rinsett, a resting elder, Red knew that she had declined because “I’ve been there and done that. It was fun, but now that I’ve got that out of the way, it’s time for me to do something else.”

And if the Nominating Committee had been delegated the responsibility of meeting with the candidates, it was clearly unqualified to do so. Red had been told, “It's not hard, just go to the monthly meeting and watch the others." Anyone who had read the Book of Order and the Leadership Training Guide would have known that the office of ruling elder is neither easy nor passive. The result of the failure of the sitting session to perform this important duty was that there were now ordained and serving elders who might not actually feel called to office.

“The Church Session shall make provision for courses of instruction in the following matters: Church government, the Sacraments, the Faith of the Church, the Worship of the Church, the Discipline of the Church, the History of the Church, and an understanding of the office to which one is elected.”

Not at Graying! Last night’s meeting was ample evidence that the session had little grasp of Church government, the Discipline of the Church, or an understanding of the office of ruling elder. A three hour plus meeting which resembled a poorly led meeting of the board of directors of a secular business demonstrated that.

They’re delegating the wrong authority, Red thought. Much of what we did last night was not necessary. If the session had completed the Leadership Training set out in the Training Guide, I wonder if last night would still have occurred?

“The Church Session of the particular church shall examine each candidate for ordination to the office of Ruling Elder or Deacon. The Candidate shall be examined on personal experience of the saving grace of God in Jesus Christ and progress in spiritual growth. Each Candidate for ordination shall be examined on the following matters: the Faith of the Church, the Sacraments, the Government of the Church, the Discipline of the Church, the Worship of the Church, the History of the Church, and an understanding of the office to which one is elected.”

Each officer who has been previously ordained into the office to which one has been called shall be examined by the Church Session on views of those subjects set forth for ordination. Each shall also give testimony of the personal experience of the saving grace of God in Jesus Christ and report progress in spiritual growth.”

Hmmmm. The emphasis on pre-ordination and pre-installation examination should be obvious, but our session either does not recognize that importance, or it is unwilling to accept the consequences of the exercise of that duty.

Election to the Office of Ruling Elder or Deacon ought not be a reward for long membership or acquiescence by the session because no qualified candidates have agreed to serve. Better to have a short-handed session or board of deacons than to accept one who is not truly called to office. Because a call to office must be confirmed by an appropriate court of the Church, the particular court has the inalienable right not to confirm a particular individual for reasons the court may determine to be proper and in keeping with Scripture.

In other words, if the examination of the candidate reveals that he or she cannot demonstrate personal experience of the saving grace of God in Jesus Christ and progress in spiritual growth, the session must necessarily act, and such action may necessitate a referral to the Nominating Committee asking for an alternate candidate. If a candidate cannot adequately explain, at a level of instructor to others, the faith of the Church, the sacraments, the government of the Church, the discipline of the Church, the worship of the Church, the history of the Church, and an understanding of the office to which elected, at a minimum, the session must undertake to provide adequate instruction.

It came to Red in a flash. It all boils down to submission to God’s authority. A fourth, unwritten, Personal Leadership Responsibility is “moral courage.”

It will be difficult for a session to tell a brother or sister in Christ that he or she needs further instruction, or that he or she has simply not exhibited a call to office. But failure to do so, when necessary, can weaken and even destroy the congregation. But, without moral courage, can we truly live up to our ordination vows?

Reviewing the vows, it became apparent that the “examination” will necessarily be lengthy and detailed.

The examination into the first six will be important with respect to the requirement that the candidate demonstrate personal experience of the saving grace of God in Jesus Christ and progress in spiritual growth.

Do you reaffirm your faith in Jesus Christ as your own personal Lord and Savior?

Do you believe the Scriptures of the Old and New Testaments to be the Word of God, totally trustworthy, fully inspired by the Holy Spirit, the supreme, final, and the only infallible rule of faith and practice?

Do you sincerely receive and adopt the Westminster Confession of Faith and the Catechisms of this Church, as containing the system of doctrine taught in the Holy Scriptures?

Do you promise that if at any time you find yourself out of accord with the system of doctrine as taught in the Scriptures and as contained in the Westminster Confession of Faith and the Catechisms of this Church you will on your own initiative make known to your Church Session the change which has taken place in
your views since the assumption of this ordination vow?

Do you affirm and adopt the “Essentials of Our Faith” without exception?

Do you subscribe to the government and discipline of the Evangelical Presbyterian Church?

The final five go directly to “call.” I’ll bet that that is where the real problems will arise, thought Red.

(Elders) Do you promise subjection to your fellow presbyters in the Lord?
(Deacons) Do you promise subjection to your fellow officers in the Lord?
Have you been induced, as far as you know your own heart, to accept your office of from love of God and sincere desire to promote His glory in the Gospel of His Son?

Do you promise to be zealous and faithful in promoting the truths of the Gospel and the purity and peace of the Church, whatever persecution or opposition may arise to you on that account?

Will you seek to be faithful and diligent in the exercise of all your duties, whether personal or relative, private or public; and to endeavor by the grace of God to adorn the profession of the Gospel in your manner of life, and to walk with exemplary piety before this congregation of which God will make you an officer?

Are you now willing to take responsibility in the life of this congregation . . ., and will you seek to discharge your duties, relying upon the Grace of God, in such a way that the entire Church of Jesus Christ will be blessed?

Red sighed. Turf fights and drawing lines in the sand are not examples of “subjection,” nor do they necessarily bless the entire Church of Jesus Christ. Bringing personal agenda with respect to worship styles, personal priorities, or protectionism are not the same as open-heartedly acting “from love of God and sincere desire to promote His glory in the Gospel of His Son.”

Mary stuck her head into Red’s study. “How is it going?”

“The duty to examine, instruct, and, if necessary, to screen prospective officers is a core responsibility,” Red replied. “It will require moral courage. But there is much more.”

“OK, ‘Calvin, Jr.,’ but can that wait ‘til after lunch? A huge pot of virtual chili just arrived and if you don’t come now, the children and I may just be forced to eat it all ourselves.”

Red headed for the kitchen.

So, what other responsibilities can there be? How will Red’s observations be received? Can QG’s virtual chili be any better than Mary’s electronic clam chowder? For answers to these and other pressing questions, join us tomorrow for the continuing saga of Graying Pres.

THE ADVENTURES OF GRAYING PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH: “Well this is a fine mess you've gotten yourself into.”

When Red got home, it was well past mid-night. He was tempted to just hit the rack, but the habit of evening meditation and prayer was hard to learn and easy to forget.

He walked into his study, took his Bible in his hands, and sat at his desk. In the darkness, broken only by a soft pool of light from his desk lamp, he prayed for direction and for calm. Then he simply allowed his Bible to fall open. His eyes alit on Jude 16:

These are grumblers, malcontents, following their own sinful desires; they are loud-mouthed boasters, showing favoritism to gain advantage.

But you must remember, beloved, the predictions of the apostles of our Lord Jesus Christ. They said to you, “In the last time there will be scoffers, following their own ungodly passions.” It is these who cause divisions, worldly people, devoid of the Spirit. But you, beloved, building yourselves up in your most holy faith and praying in the Holy Spirit, keep yourselves in the love of God, waiting for the mercy of our Lord Jesus Christ that leads to eternal life. And have mercy on those who doubt; save others by snatching them out of the fire; to others show mercy with fear, hating even the garment stained by the flesh.

Reading the study notes, he saw that Jude was writing about the heretics of the early church and his admonition to the faithful to contend for the faith. But if we scoff and divide ourselves for earthly reasons, are we in danger, too, he wondered?

He then prayed for God to help him understand what had happened at the meeting and what he could do to ease the tensions that had driven the meeting.

As Red fitfully slept, it snowed---and snowed and snowed and snowed. The phone rang at 5:30 with a recorded message from the School District that school was cancelled for the day. He told Mary, who sighed contentedly and went back to sleep.

After checking on the children, he went to the kitchen and fixed a cup of coffee. Coffee cup in hand, he returned to his study.

All right, he thought, let’s try to make some sense to all this. I’m not talking to Rex or the other elders until I can do something other than complain.

He looked at his copy of the Leadership Training Guide and skimmed over his hand-written notes. Then, taking out a lined pad, he made the following outline:

WHERE HAVE WE GONE WRONG?

Responsibilities of Elders

Personal Leadership Responsibilities

Responsibility for Spiritual Supervision

Administrative Responsibilities

Problems I saw last night

Session

Not personally prepared—is this a job or a call?
Not supervising itself
Lost sight of its role
Neither mentally nor spiritually prepared
Poor stewards of time and energy
Lack of moral courage?
Are there fiefdoms in the Kingdom of God?
Are we leading by example?
There are two ordained offices and a civil office
-Does each group understand its role and function?
Corporate v. Ecclesiasial Body

Pastor Rex

We are not supporting Rex, our brother elder
Moderator must moderate
What are his duties--and ours—to the greater church?

Congregation

How lax have we become?
Unwelcoming/unfriendly
Worship wars
Culture Wars

Don’t forget the good stuff

There are folks who do get it
Will Jackson
Sandy Frobisher

Out in the kitchen, he heard Mary and the kids talking amidst the sounds and smells of breakfast.

He opened his Bible to Psalms: “This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it.” He prayed, Thank you, God, for the snow. Thank you for this unexpected day off. Please help and guide me to make good use of the day you have given me.

So, Red is hard at work. Will he be able to fill out the outline? What will God lead him to do? Is there any of that good strawberry jam left for the toast? Join us tomorrow for answers to these and other burning questions as we continue to follow the adventures of Graying Pres.

THE ADVENTURES OF GRAYING PRESBYTERIAN CHURCH: Attention to Orders

Earl Regis presented his Clerk’s Report. The Baptism request was quickly approved.

“OK. We’ve also got a letter from Henry and Madelyn Garntner asking use the sanctuary for their grand-daughter’s wedding.”

“Who are they,” asked Fred Jones? “I don’t recognize the names.”

“Madelyn is a Transfer. Her grand-parents, Bill and Mary Transfer, were members here when I was a boy. Madelyn and her folks stopped worshipping here back in the 60’s, but Madelyn is still a member.”

“Why here?”

“Oh, they like our picturesque old sanctuary, and the reception will fill the the Fellowship Hall.”

Marylou Sunstadt piped up. “Where do the parents worship?”

“The letter is a little unclear about that. I know that Madelyn sort of stopped attending after high school. She came back in the 1970s for a couple of months, just before her wedding. My Dad was clerk at the time. I remember that that was a really big deal—Pastor didn’t want to have the wedding here because Madelyn was a Bhuddist at the time. She’d sort of gone hippie, ya know? But Bill and Mary were real influential in the church—they gave the communion silver that we use today as a memorial to Mary’s folks. So the session finally agreed as a try at reconciliation.”

“How did we get this letter? I didn’t see it. Are the couple Christians,” asked the Pastor? “What about our counseling requirements?”

“Oh, they sent it via the Board of Trustees with a check to reserve the Fellowship Hall. I’m not sure if they are members of any church--the letter mentions that Judge Branson will marry them, so maybe our counseling requirements don’t apply. The Trustees recommend approval. It’s a pretty big check.”

The conversation continued for another 20 minutes, ending with a decision to table until the next meeting. Pastor Rex was asked to contact the couple to respond to his questions.

“The Trustees also sent us a letter from the local karate academy. They are hosting a regional tournament and want to use the Fellowship Hall next month for an awards banquet. I’ve checked the calendar, and it is available.”

Suzanne Tomlinson began waving her hand wildly. “Isn’t that karate an oriental pagan religion? Should we let pagans use our facilities?”

“It’s just an awards banquet,” Earl replied.

“My grand-daughter plays karate,” said Paul Peters. “It’s not a religion; it’s a sport.”

After another 15 minute discussion, the request was finally approved, much to Mrs. Tomlinson’s horror.

The Pastor reported that the presbytery nominating committee had approached him to request that he stand for election to the Ministry Committee. “I’ve prayed about it, and am led to understand that God is calling me to do this.”

“How much time will it take,” asked Annie Starr. “You’ve got an awful lot to do here. If we were to provide that Bible study to the shelter, wouldn’t that take a lot of your time? And we have a confirmation class coming up that you’ll have to teach, isn’t that right, Ellen?”

“That will be part of my report, yes,” Ellen Klass replied.

“We hired you to take care of our congregation, not to go off gallivanting around with the presbytery. Let them find someone who isn’t so busy.”

“But isn’t that committee an important one,” Red asked? “Aren’t they the ones who make sure that pastors called to the presbytery are Scripturally and theologically sound?”

“Oh, who cares if some other church wants to call some wacko? We need to take care of Graying. Let the presbytery worry about its pastors,” was Annie’s response.

The session went on record as being opposed to the pastor’s request.

Marylou Sunstadt read the Fellowship Committee report. “We can’t find anyone who is willing to stay after the first service or to come in early before the second service to assist with the coffee hour. The Brierson’s have been handling it for the past two years, but Chip is being transferred to Houston. I guess we’ll just have to cancel the coffee hour.”

“Will anyone be in the fellowship hall for that hour to at least greet visitors,” Red asked?

“Are you volunteering?”

“He is not,” Ellen Klass said. “You keep your hands off my teachers, Marylou Sunstatdt. I’m just kidding, dear, but I have a tough enough time finding teachers. We don’t want to waste them on being glorified ushers.”

The minutes noted the end of the coffee hour “for the time being.”

Ellen Klass gave the Discipleship report. “We’ve got enough teachers for now, but no substitutes or back-ups. We had hoped that there would be a new members class by now so we could recruit from there, but Rex says no one has responded to the new members class announcement.”

“The Senior High youth group is down to six kids and four of them are seniors. There were a couple of visitors during November, but Suzie Seeker tells me that they are now attending that Bible Fellowship Church out by the Turnpike. We may be able to do away with the Senior High youth group next year and just fold the remaining two back into the Middle School group. That will save us a couple of leaders who might take over a Sunday School class.”

“We have nine kids in Middle School who need a confirmation class. Sally Rae Jonas was talking to me about when she was confirmed back in the 1930s. They spent two years, concentrating on Bible Study and the Westminster Shorter Catechism. I think that is a really good idea, and if we do it, Rex, we think you would be a perfect teacher, ‘cause you probably studied that in Seminary, right?”

Rex was silet for as moment. “We can talk about that, but I have always thought that officers of the church--the elders, and even some of the deacons-- ought to be involved in confirmation classes. How many of you would like to assist. We could do it in five or six week shifts.”

“Wait a minute there, Pastor,” said Paul Peters. “Most of us are retired or have real jobs. Maybe some of the moms could help—those that don’t work—but that’s really what we hired you to do. You’re the seminary graduate, not us.”

“I’ll lend a hand,” said Red. “The Book of Order says that one of our duties as elders is ‘to do whatever else may be necessary for the spread of the Gospel, the edification of the members, the well being of the church, the advancement of the Kingdom, and the growth in grace of all.’ How better to spread the Gospel, secure the foundation of the future congregation for the well being of the church and advance the Kingdom? These kids are the future. Isn’t this one of our responsibilities?”

“You’ve actually read the Book of Order,” asked Billie Jean? “Really? C’mon, Red, be realistic. If we did all the stuff it says elders are to do, who would run the affairs of the church? That’s why we hire a pastor. That religious stuff is his line of work. No offense, Rex. Besides, Westminster can be pretty harsh. Maybe we ought to temper that with the Confession of 1967. It’s nowhere near as mean-spirited as Westminster.”

“But the Confession of ’67 is a PC(USA) confession, Ellen.”

“Oh, sure, but it was my husband who wanted us to join this church. I was OK with the PC(USA) and shouldn’t we give our kids all sides of every issue? I mean, Westminster is so “right and wrong” oriented. We all know that times have changed since it was written, and we ought let our kids know that they can choose to be tolerant and inclusive.”

After another 20 minutes of give and take—mostly “give”—the issue was tabled with the understanding that as far as confessions go, Graying would stick with Westminster.

Annie Starr yawned and said, “The Outreach report is in your folder. I could talk about a lot of it, but I’m too tired.”

Fred Jones offered the Worship report. “I had four complaints about yesterday’s music. Two said that they would not attend any service that had guitars or banjos. The other two asked why we can’t have a blended service more often?”

“One member is really torqued about the contemporary service. She says that it has driven too many members out of the church, which was a surprise to me. I asked what she meant and she said, ‘Well, I never see children at worship anymore. I really like seeing the little ones when they go up for the children’s service. Now they are gone, and it makes me sad.’”

“I told her that the contemporary service has lots of kids in attendance. I said that the young families prefer the earlier service and are attending there. I suggested that, if she wants to see the kids, she can come to the 9:00 o’clock service.”

“She said, ‘I hate that service. I hate the music, I hate the clapping, and the raised hands, and all that other stuff that passes for worship these days. Worship is stately and has organ music with harmonies and words that mean something. That contemporary stuff might as well be led by dances around a campfire.’”

“I asked for her solution and she said, ‘Well that’s so simple, I’m surprised that you didn’t already think of it. Get rid of the early service and make them come back to the real worship at 11:00.’”

Paul Peters reported for the Mission Committee. “We’ve got three missionaries back on furlough between now and Easter. I move that we invite each of them to preach on a Sunday of their choosing. That will give Rex some time off to prepare for the Bible studies at the Shelter and the Confirmation Class.”

“But I’ve got a preaching schedule that we discussed last Fall. It is designed for the pre-Lenten and Lenten Season. Putting in visitors will have the Easter Sermon delivered on Mother’s Day.”

“Ah, don’t worry about it Rex. No one will notice anyway.”

“Wait a minute,” Red interjected. “According to the Book of Order, we oversee the worship of the congregation -- the time and place of worship, special services, the music program, and the celebration of the sacraments – but Rex is responsible for selection of hymns, Scriptures, sermons, and administration of the sacraments. How can we tell him he can’t preach on a particular Sunday?”

“There you go with that Book of Order stuff again,” laughed Paul. “Look, we get a dose of Rex every Sunday. He’s our employee and if we want to give him a day off, who’s to complain? But these missionaries are out there on foreign shores doing the real work of the church. We need to fire up the congregation so they give more so we can send out more missionaries.”

“Look,” Rex said, “it is almost midnight. Red is right, but Paul, why don’t you and I get together later this week to set up schedules for ‘Minutes for Mission’ for each of these folks?”

“Well, if you insist. But we are missing a great opportunity to hear some real preaching, no offense, Rex.”

The meeting closed with a very short prayer by Annie Starr, the gist of which was “Thank God this meeting is over.”

Red walked away stunned. Where was the Bible study? Where was the time of prayer? Something has to give!

Well, will Red’s questions be answered? Will pastor Rex ever take offense at the slaps at his heart? Will the Session hold a military formation for the folks at the 9:00 o’clock service and “order” them to report at 11:00? Tune in tomorrow for some answers to those and other questions as we continue to watch the adventures at Graying Pres.