The Office of Elder—An Overview

By the time this article appears in print, letters will have again been sent by our various consistories to certain confessing male members somewhat as follows: "The Consistory informs you that your name has been placed on nomination for the office of Elder. Please let us know if you have valid reasons why you would beunable to serve…." Unable to serve? Sometimes the nomination comes as a surprise, especially to those who receive it for the first time. But as you ponder your answer, you may...