PPC Session and the Board of Deacons
As set forth in the Book of Order, the Session is the governing body of Placentia Presbyterian Church. As there were in Old Testament times, elders for the government of the people, so the New Testament Church provided persons with particular gifts to share in governing and ministry. They are elected by the congregation and together with the ministers of the Word and Sacrament, they exercise leadership, government, and discipline and have responsibilities for the life of the congregation and the church at large. At Placentia Presbyterian Church, elders serve a three year term of office. (from the Book of Order G-6.0300)
According to the Book of Order, the office of deacon as set forth in Scripture is one of sympathy, witness, and service after the example of Jesus Christ. Persons of spiritual character, honest repute, of exemplary lives, brotherly and sisterly love, warm sympathies, and sound judgment should be chosen for this office. At Placentia Presbyterian Church, deacons serve a three year term. (from the Book of Order G-6.0400)
2008 Session Committee Functions Moderator, Rev. F. David Throop Clerk of Session, Ann Walling Christian Education and Nurture Committee - The primary purpose of the CE&N Committee is to provide an education to people of all ages, enabling them to grow towards likeness in Jesus Christ in both thinking and behavior. Mission Committee - The Mission Committee is responsible for recommending to Session the mission activities to be supported by PPC, and periodically evaluates the programs which receive church funding to determine if continued support is appropriate. Membership and Evangelism Committee - The ME Committee promotes activities and organizations at PPC that encourage participation and fellowship among church members. This committee also focuses on organizing events and programs to reach out to those who do not know of the saving love of Jesus Christ and those who are not a part of a Christian church family. Stewardship Committee - The Stewardship Committee coordinates the financial needs of PPC with all Session committees and is responsible for the stewardship program of the congregation. Nominating Committee - The Nominating Committee prayerfully considers the names of those submitted to them by members of the congregation for possible nomination to the office of Elder and Deacon. Members contact each of the possible nominees and discuss the responsibilities of the office. The Nominating Committee provides a list of those who answer the call for the various church offices to the congregation for nomination. Personnel Committee - The Personnel Committee coordinates personnel policy and practice across the entire church staff; recommends salary policy and reviews salary actions annually; establishes clear work responsibilities for each position; and helps to develop position descriptions. Worship Committee - The Worship Committee provides the leadership in planning for and assessing the quality and standards of worship at PPC.
The Board of Deacons
What is a Deacon?
A Deacon is a person who ministers to others in the name of Jesus Christ, performing acts of caring, serving, and meeting practical needs. Deacons also play a significant role in meeting the spiritual needs of those who are in crisis situations.
The Board of Deacons currently consists of 20 dedicated members of Placentia Presbyterian Church. Each Deacon is elected by the congregation and serves a three year term. These people minister to those who are in need, to the sick, to the lonely, and to those who may be in distress.
Exactly What Work is Done by the Deacons?
Visiting and communicating with the sick at home or in the hospital
Visiting and communicating with those who are shut-in at home or in assisted-living facilities
Distributing Chancel flowers and devotional materials to shut-ins
Providing receptions for friends and family after a memorial service
Providing meals on a short-term basis to individuals and families in a crisis situation
Providing sack lunches, grocery bags, and bus passes to people in need
Setting the communion table and preparing the elements for all communion services
Sponsors FIX-IT-FRIENDS: This is a group of people in the church who are able to help senior members of the church with light repairs on their homes. No heavy or lengthy jobs will be performed. Call Deacon Ruth Ann Anderson at (714) 996-1735 for help and information.
How is the Work of the Deacons Funded?
The Deacons depend on special gifts from the congregation that are generally received through the use of a special monthly offering envelope (current members receive these envelopes). The Deacons also use money from a dedicated trust fund set up by a former church member.
How Do I Contact a Deacon?
If you have a need or learn of a need, whether it is a serious illness, surgery, death in the family, or other need, you may contact the Deacons by calling the Church Office at (714) 528-1438 |