Download the full Ruling Elder Expectations.

What are the qualifications to be an Elder?

• Active Ministry Partner of LFC for no less than 2 years.
• Demonstrated ministry leadership and commitment to LFC
• Character qualifications outlined in scripture (re: I Timothy 3:1-6)
• Agreement with all components of the EPC “Essentials” (www.lakeforest.org) and general assent with the Westminster Confession (www.epc.org)

General Role Description

Ruling Elders are nominated and confirmed by Ministry Partners after examination by the Nominating Committee. It is the responsibility of the Elders to govern the local church and oversee the spiritual welfare of the congregation. Essential activities of the Elder are:

• Provide strategic-level leadership for the operation and ministry of Lake Forest Church;
• Pray for the Pastoral/Director Staff and the congregation;
• Stewardship of Staff – active participation in well-being and development of staff;
• Be a role model to the congregation through servant leadership. Actively shepherd the members of the church.
• Serve the congregation in duties specifically set aside for Elders including oversight of all administrative activities.
• Participate in regular meetings of Session and weekly leadership team meetings.

Biblical Qualifications

I Timothy 3:1-13 and Titus 1:5-9 outline biblical qualifications of an elder. Noteworthy attributes include:

• Temperate, respectable, able to teach, has control of family and financial affairs and is mature in their faith. Not a recent convert. Exemplifies sound doctrine and high ethics in all dealings.