Forest City Church is governed by a board of Elders. By relying on consensual agreement of the Elders selected from the congregation, the church creates healthy checks-and-balances of leadership direction, financial accountability, spiritual guidance, and ministry implementation. Titus 1:5–9, I Peter 5:1–4, Acts 20:28–31, James 5:14
*The reference to one holy catholic and apostolic Church is used in its original meaning of one- universal church of Jesus Christ. While there are various denominations of the church all arepart of one church whose origins go back to the apostles themselves. Origins of the Nicene Creed In the early years of the church there were various teachings that deviated from the clear teaching of Scripture. Both the Apostles Creed and the Nicene Creed were clarifications of the fundamental teachings of Scripture around God, Creation, the Trinity, the incarnation, life and death of Christ on the cross along with the resurrection, new life in Christ and the life to come. Historically, most Christian movements would adhere to the teaching of the Nicene Creed.
Elder Nominations through May 31st
*The reference to one holy catholic and apostolic Church is used in its original meaning of one- universal church of Jesus Christ. While there are various denominations of the church all arepart of one church whose origins go back to the apostles themselves. Origins of the Nicene Creed In the early years of the church there were various teachings that deviated from the clear teaching of Scripture. Both the Apostles Creed and the Nicene Creed were clarifications of the fundamental teachings of Scripture around God, Creation, the Trinity, the incarnation, life and death of Christ on the cross along with the resurrection, new life in Christ and the life to come. Historically, most Christian movements would adhere to the teaching of the Nicene Creed.
Step 1 | If you would like to nominate an individual, your first step is to have a conversation with the individual you would like to nominate to confirm that they are interested in being an Elder of FCC
Step 2 | Email the name and phone number of the individual you would like to nominate to: elders@forestcitychurch.com
Step 3 | All nominations must be submitted by May 31st, 2023
Current Elders
David Sidney - Elder Board Chair
Sue Scott
Mark Mienert
Angela Lundin
We are Policy Board Governed
Our church uses Policy Board Governance (Overview)
Our implementation of Policy Board Governance is designed to clarify the role and relationship of the elder board and lead pastor (leader/board linkage). To help facilitate that relationship, the elder board is responsible for the development of who we believe God has called us to be as a church (Ends), set boundaries for the lead pastor when conducting ministry (Executive Limitations) and lead pastor and board linkage. This is a blueprint to keep the focus on mission, define the limitations of ministry, and monitor key indicators. Our Policy Governance system allows the elders to focus their gifts and time to oversee the ministry, provide spiritual protection, financial oversight, hold the lead pastor accountable, and minister to the church body in their unique way.
The board’s relationship with staff is through the lead pastor. The lead pastor is the only person accountable to the elder board for moving the church towards the Ends, and assuring the church is operated effectively. The lead pastor is accountable to the elder board on mission accomplishments and faithfulness to the Executive Limitations. The lead pastor is also responsible for the work of the ministry, oversight of staff, implementation of the vision and direction, and accomplishment of the mission.
*The reference to one holy catholic and apostolic Church is used in its original meaning of one- universal church of Jesus Christ. While there are various denominations of the church all arepart of one church whose origins go back to the apostles themselves. Origins of the Nicene Creed In the early years of the church there were various teachings that deviated from the clear teaching of Scripture. Both the Apostles Creed and the Nicene Creed were clarifications of the fundamental teachings of Scripture around God, Creation, the Trinity, the incarnation, life and death of Christ on the cross along with the resurrection, new life in Christ and the life to come. Historically, most Christian movements would adhere to the teaching of the Nicene Creed.
What are the Elders' Responsibilities?
In addition to the Policy Board Governance, the elders' responsibilities vary greatly and require discernment as the board strives to keep the church on its biblical course. Responsibilities include but are not limited to:
As Christ’s church, the board is ultimately responsible for representing the “owner”, or Christ’s mission for this specific church.
Creating policies to clearly define church values and biblical operating procedures.
Ensuring the church’s teachings and practices reflect accurate biblical theology.
Ensuring avenues for pastoral care, conflict resolution, discipline, and restoration.
Providing direction on financial or risk-management issues.
Providing accountability to the lead pastor, to ensure the vision and values determined by the elders are being carried out.
*The reference to one holy catholic and apostolic Church is used in its original meaning of one- universal church of Jesus Christ. While there are various denominations of the church all arepart of one church whose origins go back to the apostles themselves. Origins of the Nicene Creed In the early years of the church there were various teachings that deviated from the clear teaching of Scripture. Both the Apostles Creed and the Nicene Creed were clarifications of the fundamental teachings of Scripture around God, Creation, the Trinity, the incarnation, life and death of Christ on the cross along with the resurrection, new life in Christ and the life to come. Historically, most Christian movements would adhere to the teaching of the Nicene Creed.
How we choose Elders
*The reference to one holy catholic and apostolic Church is used in its original meaning of one- universal church of Jesus Christ. While there are various denominations of the church all arepart of one church whose origins go back to the apostles themselves. Origins of the Nicene Creed In the early years of the church there were various teachings that deviated from the clear teaching of Scripture. Both the Apostles Creed and the Nicene Creed were clarifications of the fundamental teachings of Scripture around God, Creation, the Trinity, the incarnation, life and death of Christ on the cross along with the resurrection, new life in Christ and the life to come. Historically, most Christian movements would adhere to the teaching of the Nicene Creed.
Step 1 | Nomination by FCC attendee or staff in May
Step 2 | Questionnaire filled out by nominee in June
Step 3 | Recommendations to the full board with interview by Nominating Team (2-elders, 2-staff, 2-volunteers) in July and August
Step 4 |Present to the congregation for 30 days of vetting in September
Step 5 |Congregational affirmation in October
Step 6 | New Elder(s) attend their first meeting in November
Apprentice Elder
We believe in one Lord, Jesus Christ, the only Son of God, eternally begotten of the Father, God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, not made, of one Being with the Father.
Through him all things were made.
For us and for our salvation he came down from heaven: by the power of the Holy Spirit he became incarnate from the Virgin Mary, and was made man.
For our sake he was crucified under Pontius Pilate; he suffered death and was buried.
On the third day he rose again in accordance with the Scriptures; he ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father.
He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead, and his kingdom will have no end.
We believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life, who proceeds from the Father [and the Son]. With the Father and the Son he is worshiped and glorified. He has spoken through the Prophets.
We believe in one holy catholic and apostolic Church. We acknowledge one baptism for the forgiveness of sins. We look for the resurrection of the dead, and the life of the world to come. Amen
*The reference to one holy catholic and apostolic Church is used in its original meaning of one- universal church of Jesus Christ. While there are various denominations of the church all arepart of one church whose origins go back to the apostles themselves. Origins of the Nicene Creed In the early years of the church there were various teachings that deviated from the clear teaching of Scripture. Both the Apostles Creed and the Nicene Creed were clarifications of the fundamental teachings of Scripture around God, Creation, the Trinity, the incarnation, life and death of Christ on the cross along with the resurrection, new life in Christ and the life to come. Historically, most Christian movements would adhere to the teaching of the Nicene Creed.
Elders agree to serve for one year as an elder-in-training, with a voice and a view but no vote during the first year. At the conclusion of the first year, the Board of Elders and elder-in-training will mutually decide whether they are a good fit to serve on the Board of Elders.
Spiritual Gifts
The spiritual gifts of discernment, wisdom, and leadership are considered foundational gifts for those who serve as Elders; however, the presence of other gifts such as teaching, administration, encouragement, and mercy greatly enhance Elder functioning.
We believe in one Lord, Jesus Christ, the only Son of God, eternally begotten of the Father, God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, not made, of one Being with the Father.
Through him all things were made.
For us and for our salvation he came down from heaven: by the power of the Holy Spirit he became incarnate from the Virgin Mary, and was made man.
For our sake he was crucified under Pontius Pilate; he suffered death and was buried.
On the third day he rose again in accordance with the Scriptures; he ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father.
He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead, and his kingdom will have no end.
We believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life, who proceeds from the Father [and the Son]. With the Father and the Son he is worshiped and glorified. He has spoken through the Prophets.
We believe in one holy catholic and apostolic Church. We acknowledge one baptism for the forgiveness of sins. We look for the resurrection of the dead, and the life of the world to come. Amen
*The reference to one holy catholic and apostolic Church is used in its original meaning of one- universal church of Jesus Christ. While there are various denominations of the church all arepart of one church whose origins go back to the apostles themselves. Origins of the Nicene Creed In the early years of the church there were various teachings that deviated from the clear teaching of Scripture. Both the Apostles Creed and the Nicene Creed were clarifications of the fundamental teachings of Scripture around God, Creation, the Trinity, the incarnation, life and death of Christ on the cross along with the resurrection, new life in Christ and the life to come. Historically, most Christian movements would adhere to the teaching of the Nicene Creed.
1-Discernment
The gift of discernment is the divine enablement to distinguish between truth and error. It is the ability to discern the spirits, differentiating between good and evil, right and wrong. Scripture references are: 1 Corinthians 12:10; Acts 5:1–4; and Matthew 16:21–23
People with this gift:
Distinguish truth from error, right from wrong, pure motives from impure motives.
Identify deception in others with accuracy and in an appropriate manner.
Determine whether a word attributed to God is authentic.
Recognize inconsistencies in a teaching, prophetic message, or interpretation.
Are servants by nature; eager to see the church prevail in the world.
Demonstrate spiritual foresight that anticipates the work of God.
Allow Scripture and prayer to inform their decision-making process.
Impart vision to others using clear communication.
Can assess significant past events and their potential for impact on the present and future.
Are able to think creatively and apply ideas and concepts in new ways.
Desire accountability in fulfilling their responsibilities and meeting the needs of those they serve.
Elder Time Commitment
Elders’ meeting—once a month, plus quarterly retreats
Four to six hours (on average) per month for review of Elder board materials, policies, correspondence, meeting preparation, and team conference calls.
If serious issues arise that require immediate attention by the Elder board, additional hours may be required outside of regular Elders’ meetings.
Elders are eligible to serve two 4-year terms (8 years) before taking a year off.
We believe in one Lord, Jesus Christ, the only Son of God, eternally begotten of the Father, God from God, Light from Light, true God from true God, begotten, not made, of one Being with the Father.
Through him all things were made.
For us and for our salvation he came down from heaven: by the power of the Holy Spirit he became incarnate from the Virgin Mary, and was made man.
For our sake he was crucified under Pontius Pilate; he suffered death and was buried.
On the third day he rose again in accordance with the Scriptures; he ascended into heaven and is seated at the right hand of the Father.
He will come again in glory to judge the living and the dead, and his kingdom will have no end.
We believe in the Holy Spirit, the Lord, the giver of life, who proceeds from the Father [and the Son]. With the Father and the Son he is worshiped and glorified. He has spoken through the Prophets.
We believe in one holy catholic and apostolic Church. We acknowledge one baptism for the forgiveness of sins. We look for the resurrection of the dead, and the life of the world to come. Amen
*The reference to one holy catholic and apostolic Church is used in its original meaning of one- universal church of Jesus Christ. While there are various denominations of the church all arepart of one church whose origins go back to the apostles themselves. Origins of the Nicene Creed In the early years of the church there were various teachings that deviated from the clear teaching of Scripture. Both the Apostles Creed and the Nicene Creed were clarifications of the fundamental teachings of Scripture around God, Creation, the Trinity, the incarnation, life and death of Christ on the cross along with the resurrection, new life in Christ and the life to come. Historically, most Christian movements would adhere to the teaching of the Nicene Creed.
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