Elections, Nominations, Authority, and Equality

During its very first service on July 11, 1948, the congregation of the newly-formed Kitchener First CRC (now known as Community CRC) voted for two elders and two deacons; along with the pastor, they made up the church's first council.  This may seem like a boring, business-like thing to do on a day of celebration.  However, selecting leaders was (and still is) a vital first step for a new church community.  On the 70th anniversary of the founding of Community CRC, we're reflecting on the subject of church leadership.

Church leaders should call the members of the congregation not only to worship God and to study his word, but to live out their faith in their lives; they should lead by example, especially in service to those in need both in the congregation and outside of it.  Church leaders should be chosen by the members of the congregation, as opposed to being appointed by some outside authority.  They should be motivated to be leaders by a calling from God, as opposed to a craving for power.  They should be treated as equals to each other regardless of their circumstances, as opposed to one leader lording it over others for whatever reason.  In turn, the members of the congregation should respect their leaders, listen to their teaching, and submit to their authority.

To see this sermon in the context of the larger entire worship service, please open this bulletin.