Reformed Church Government
Our federation of churches is governed by the Reformed system of church government meaning that all of the churches within the federation meet together at regular intervals to discuss matters that the churches have in common and in order to hold one another accountable. Our churches meet at an annual synod meeting once every year (usually the first week in June). Normally each consistory is represented by the pastor and an elder. If the congregation is vacant, the consistory is represented by two elders.
Church Order
Our congregation is also bound to a church order known as the Church Order of Dort which was formulated by the Synod of Dort (1618-1619). The church order regulates the government, worship and discipline of the church. As such it helps ensure that all things are done “decently and in order” (I Cor 14: 40).
Consistory
Like all Reformed churches, our congregation is governed by a consistory consisting of the pastor(s), the elders and the deacons. Together, the office bearers reflect the three offices of Lord Jesus Christ: the pastors reflect the prophetic office of Christ, the deacons reflect the priestly office of Christ and elders reflect the kingly office of Christ.
Each of these offices has its own task. The primary tasks of the minister are to preach the Word and to administer the sacraments. The primary tasks of the elders are to supervise the conduct and teaching of the minister, to assist the minister in pastoring the flock, and to administer Christian discipline. The primary tasks of the deacons are to collect and distribute the offerings of the congregation and to visit and comfort the sick and the poor.
All of the office bearers are elected by the congregation after being nominated by the consistory. Once elected, they serve a four year term. In accordance with the teaching of Scripture, only male members in good standing may serve as office bearers of the church (I Tim 2: 11).
Committees
Our congregation is also served by a number of committees that are appointed by and accountable to the consistory. These committee assist the consistory in ensuring that the needs of the church and its members are being met.