Elders
Nine elders share the spiritual leadership of this congregation with the pastoral team. The role asks for prayer, time, discretion and, on occasion, the wisdom of Solomon.
What Elders is
The role of elder is not ceremonial. Scripture sets out specific expectations for those set aside in this way, and the guidance the church gives new elders is blunt: this is not a matter of appearing on Sabbath morning to call for the offering and introduce the speaker. It asks for a serious commitment of time, and for discretion and confidentiality when sensitive matters involving members are in your hands.
Elders share spiritual oversight of the congregation with the pastors. They preach, they visit, they pray with people, they help carry the church through decisions, and a good deal of what they do is never discussed publicly and should not be.
At Edmonton Central the elders also carry zone responsibility for the congregation — the structure that made the Central Hope Food Drive possible, with six elder zones covering the neighbourhood.
What this looks like here
Common questions
How do I speak to an elder?
Approach any elder on a Sabbath, or call the church office on 780-420-0215 and ask to be put in touch.
What is an elder for, exactly?
Spiritual leadership shared with the pastors: preaching, visiting, praying with members, and helping guide the congregation.
Are elders paid?
No. Elders at Edmonton Central are lay members who serve alongside their work and families.
Can I ask an elder to pray with me?
Yes. That is a large part of what they are here for.
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Go deeper
These are the official resources this ministry draws on. Everything below is free to read, and worth it if you are stepping into this work or simply want to understand it properly.
Get involved with Elders
Speak to Kwesi Amoh or the church office and we will point you to the right person. Everyone starts somewhere.