Church government and mission in Highland Presbyterian Church come under the direction of three boards. They are the Session, the Deacons, and the Trustees.
Highland Presbyterian is governed by a board of ordained elders called the Session. The Session has broad responsibility for planning and carrying out the worship, mission, and Christian education of the congregation. Session is also charged with the nurture and discipline of the membership, and for oversight of employed personnel. Ultimately, every power or decision not specifically assigned to the pastor or to the congregation comes under the aegis of the Session. This power however is always understood in the context of their duty to be the spiritual government of the church.
The Diaconate, or Board of Deacons, is a group of persons called and ordained to the ministry of mercy and compassion. This responsibility typically falls into two categories. First of all is the care and concern provided to people within the congregation such as those who are ill, aged, shut-in, or incapacitated in some other way. The Deacons send cards, visit those in the hospital or nursing homes, or provide meals or tapes of services for those who are ill. The other portion of their work consists of outreach to those in the community who are in need. The Deacons collect food for the Mason-Dixon ministries, deliver baskets for the needy at Thanksgiving and Christmas, and support collections for our used clothing closet.
The Trustees are elected to oversee day to day management of our property and financial affairs. They work with the treasurer to make sure that bills are paid and that our building is in good repair. They work with the Session to plan for the annual budget and stewardship efforts.
