Emmanuel believes strongly in the "priesthood of all believers," the biblical idea that all of us are called and equipped to tend to the spiritual needs of others. We also believe the Scriptures direct churches to elect from their own a group of elders to provide spiritual oversight to the congregation. Individually, elders are responsible to counsel, teach, pray with and for the members of Emmanuel. Collectively, these elders form what Presbyterians call a "Session," which governs a local congregation.
To learn more about the ministry of an elder, please read
Qualifications for Elder.