The Elders provide spiritual oversight and direction for the church. They prayerfully discern where God is leading us and how well we are doing in getting there. Faith Community Church of Hopkinton calls itself an “Elder-led, staff-run church.” Elders serve to insure that the church is healthy and that the people of Faith Community Church receive help in their journey toward spiritual maturity. They meet with people in need of counsel, prayer or who desire to discuss the ministries of the church.
The Elders serve to fulfill four main responsibilities:
- Protect and promote the communication of truth (1 Timothy 3:2; 2 Timothy 1:13-14; Titus 1:9);
- Pray for the church (Acts 6:3-4; James 5:14);
- Protect and nurture the spiritual well-being of the body (Acts 20-28); and
- Provide a Godly example for others to follow (1 Timothy 3:1-7; Titus 1:6-9).
The Elder Board is comprised of unpaid, elected ministry partners, both men and women, who possess the qualities and gifts associated with the role of an Elder as described in the Bible. In addition, two paid staff people, the Senior Pastor and the Executive Director, serve on the Board. The Elders work through the Senior Pastor and Executive Director to fulfill the church's goals.
The Elders meet with people to pray for their needs, to provide spiritual counsel and guidance, and to listen to their concerns. They engage in frequent communication and meet regularly to share the work and progress they have made as a Board.