Session
It belongs to those in the office of Elders (i.e., the Session), both severally and jointly, to watch diligently over the flock committed to their charge, that no corruption of doctrine or of morals enter therein. They must exercise government and discipline, and take oversight not only of the spiritual interests of the particular church, but also the Church generally when called thereunto. They should visit the people at their homes, especially the sick. They should instruct the ignorant, comfort the mourner, and nourish and guard the children of the Church. They should set a worthy example to the flock entrusted to their care by their zeal to evangelize the unconverted and make disciples. All those duties which private Christians are bound to discharge by the law of love are especially incumbent upon them by divine vocation, and are to be discharged as official duties. They should pray with and for the people, being careful and diligent in seeking the fruit of the preached Word among the flock…He that fills this office should possess a competency of human learning and be blameless in life, sound in the faith and apt to teach. He should exhibit a sobriety and holiness of life becoming the Gospel. He should rule his own house well and should have a good report of them that are outside the Church. You can contact the Session at session@graceandpeaceaustin.com with any questions or directly at any of their individual emails below.
Elders are elected by the Grace + Peace members based on the qualifications in 1 Timothy 3:1-7.
DEacons & Deaconesses
It is the duty of the Deacons to minister to those who are in need, to the sick, to the friendless, and to any who may be in distress. It is their duty also to develop the grace of liberality in the members of the church, to devise effective methods of collecting the gifts of the people, and to distribute these gifts among the objects to which they are contributed. They shall have the care of the property of the congregation, both real and personal, and shall keep in proper repair the church edifice and other buildings belonging to the congregations. To the office of Deacon, which is spiritual in nature, shall be chosen men of spiritual character, honest repute, exemplary lives, brotherly spirit, warm sympathies, and sound judgment. The role of Deaconess is not an ordained office of the church. However, they are charged with assisting the Deacons in all their work and should be held to the same standards as the men.
Don't hesitate to reach out to the diaconate if there is a physical, emotional, or material need for yourself or a neighbor! You can connect with the deacons and deaconesses of Grace + Peace by emailing activedeacons@graceandpeaceaustin.com.
Deacons and deaconesses are elected by the Grace + Peace members based on the qualifications in 1 Timothy 3:8-16.