Church Leadership
Asked to describe who in the church determines its vision and direction, many of us in the congregation might immediately say the pastor. However, according to scripture and to our church by-laws, that would only be partly true. The lead pastor certainly has a major impact, but he is only one member of the Board of Elders, the group “responsible for the spiritual leadership, church ministries, membership and discipline” for our fellowship (HRAC bylaws, Article III, section 3.)
This is not an arbitrary structure. Paul tells Titus in Titus 1:3 and 9, “The reason I left you in Crete was that you might straighten out what was left unfinished and appoint elders in every town, as I directed you…. He (an elder) must hold firmly to the trustworthy message as it has been taught, so that he can encourage others by sound doctrine and refute those who oppose it.” The qualifications for an elder are spelled out in 1 Timothy 3:1-7 and Titus 1:5-9.
So, at Hood River Alliance Church, this group of five to ten men (currently six) are responsible for making sure our teaching and doctrine is sound, that our culture and direction are consistent with scripture, and that we continually seek the Holy Spirit’s guidance. Our elders are Joe Rinella, Bob Spotts, Marty Miller, Doug Rovianek, Tim Saur, and Jim Pennington.
Here at HRAC, the elders are part of a larger board called the Governing Board. The other members of the Governing Board are a deacon, a deaconess, and two members at large, selected by the congregation at the annual meeting. Those other four members of the Governing Board are Kaylene Baker, Ilea Bouse, Kelly Benjamin, and Eric Bokovoy. According to Article III, Section 2.b., “The Governing Board shall meet monthly for prayer and conducting the business affairs of the church.” The by-laws also state that, “The Pastoral Staff shall serve in an advisory capacity without (a) vote.”
In future articles we will introduce the members of the Governing Board, including the six elders. In the meantime, it is worth recognizing that, in the middle of all the challenges the church has faced in recent weeks, only one lay member of the Governing Board, has stepped down. Carl Ralston asked to step away as an elder and Tim Saur was asked to replace him. It is doubtful that any of them anticipated serving during such a challenging time, but they have remained faithful to their roles.
At this time, Scripture holds guidance for us in the congregation as well. “Obey your leaders and submit to their authority. They keep watch over you as men who must give an account. Obey them so that their work will be a joy, not a burden, for that would be of no advantage to you” (Hebrews 13:17). So, please pray for these men and women as they lead us though this time of transition, and encourage them as they do so.