July 2010

Check out new tools
The Elders' Tool Box has a new tool: "A Conduct Covenant in Session Meetings," written by Mark Tremblay. In this tool, Mark highlights points from Gilbert R. Rendle's Behavioral Covenants in Congregations. This tool will help you and the other elders in your session "commit to listening and debating in a Christ-like manner so that God's will is done." Coming soon: "Counting Down 'Top Ten Reasons Why Presbyterian Government Works'," a summary of a helpful article written by Mark McLennan.

Who will be the lucky clerk?
There is only one spot left in Serving as a Clerk of Session: Boning Up On the Basics, written and taught by Ted Siverns. This class will run from September 20 to October 29. Here's some feedback from the spring class:

• I found the material to be interesting and valuable.
• I enjoyed the humour and the positive feedback.
• I learned that I’m not alone, and the problems I face are common to clerks in congregations of all sizes.
• The feedback from other clerks was invaluable.

To read more information about online courses and to register, visit our website: www.eldersinstitute.ca.

All are welcome!
Are you a new ruling elder or a seasoned elder who wants to bone up on the basics of how to serve Christ's church more effectively? If so, the online course Serving as a Ruling Elder could be just what you need. The next class is offered November 1 to December 10, taught by Stephen Hayes. If you know of someone else who's a new ruling elder or considering a call, kindly pass on this information. The cost for a six-week online course is $100. Group discounts are available for churches with 5 or more registrants. Register by clicking here.