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Greek 101

It’s time for your Greek lesson!

(I know what you’re thinking: “Don’t we get enough Greek in your sermons on Sundays!?” And, fair enough. Maybe so. But this one will be short. I promise.)

Good Shepherd is a Presbyterian church. This describes not only our Reformed theology but also our polity - how we are led. The word “Presbyterian” is derived from the Greek presbuteros (pronounced prez-byoo-ter-oss), and is the most common term for leaders throughout the Christian Scriptures. As it’s the simplest level, being a Covenant Partner in a Presbyterian church means being led by both pastors and elders, who serve alongside diakonos (pronounced dee-ak-on-os) - otherwise known as deacons.

Okay, Greek lesson officially over.

Just this week our Nominating Team, a committee of the congregation, concluded its work of discerning and recommending Elders and Deacons to serve 3-year terms alongside our Pastors and Staff in leading and serving Good Shepherd. I’m so excited for those who have been called by God to serve His church! And I’m so thankful for the members of this year’s Nominating Team, each of whom already serves in various church ministries. Next time you see Dan Krehbiel, Julie Varley, Darla Halker, Charlie Stahl, Wayne Harrington, or Barbara Kelly, please join me in thanking them for their committed service to this year’s Nominating Team.

In a way, this practice of electing and appointing church officers goes all the way back to Acts chapter 6, when the disciples-turned-apostles invited others to join them in caring for the thousands of new disciples joining the church. But it’s not just “something we’ve always done.” I believe this practice is vital for the church moving forward, too.

For Good Shepherd to live into its mission statement of “Inviting all people to grow into a Christ-centered life in God’s family,” we must be led not only by Pastors and Staff, but also by lay leaders who work with our Ministry Teams and provide care for members of our church family.

For that reason, please plan to join me on Sunday, December 4th at 10am(ish) at a Congregational Meeting to vote on the nomination of Candice Cordova as Elder of Human Resources, Del Black as Elder of Spiritual Growth, Wendy Ketcham as Elder of Student Ministries, Jane Nethers as Deacon of Card Ministry, Chris Zato as Deacon of Courtesy Meals, Bob Wahlstrom as Deacon of Care Calling, and Mary Billetts as Deacon of Memorial Receptions.

Maybe you’re thinking, “But, Curtis, I don’t know any of those people.” Even better! Come learn more about our process of nomination, then meet these willing servants of our community of faith.

Whatever you do, don’t forget: Stay late after the Classic Gathering or come early for the Modern Gathering on Sunday, December 4th. Don’t miss electing and appointing our presbuteros and diakonos!

Pastor Curtis

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