DISCERNMENT COMMITTEE

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Responsible to:    Congregation

Membership:       A chair and 2 or more members. Pastor in an advisory role.

Term of Office:   Two years, in staggered terms. Chair elected at the first meeting in September.

Responsibilities:  Oversee the process for discerning elder candidates, prepare the ballot for the annual May church business meeting so that members can elect or affirm persons for the various positions of responsibility in the church, follow up with newly elected committee members.

1.Follow the established process for discerning elder candidates.

2.Ascertain what positions are to be discerned for the coming year.

3.Poll the congregation annually for nominees and volunteers for open positions.

4.Check the church constitution as to which positions require church membership.

5.Discern gifts and talents of church personnel in relation to committee and education positions to find optimal fit. Interest in education will be provided to the children's superintendent and the adult education committee.

6.Contact persons in the church as to their willingness and availability to have their names on the ballot.

7.Supply job descriptions to potential candidates.

8.Present the ballot at the May, business meeting. (No required number of names need appear for each ballot position.)

9.If position vacancies occur mid term, the committee will discern and recommend a replacement for approval by Leadership board.

10.Ensure that all newly appointed persons have a job description.

11.Periodically meet with those holding positions to discuss how the work is going.

12.Involve new attendees in an appropriate church functions.

13.Give thanks and recognition for those holding positions.

Note: The Church Secretary is helpful in ascertaining what positions are to be filled for

the coming year. The secretary will also have copies of forms and ballots used in previous

years for the elder discernment and balloting processes.

10/2000