Elder Selection Process 2026
Intro | Process Overview | Schedule
Elder Role | Elder Eligibility | Book of Forms
Schedule
The following is an outline of the process with timeline dates for 2026.
NOMINATION PHASE |
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February 2 |
Nomination communications sent to members by mail or email. Members work and pray to submit nominations. |
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February 22 |
Nominations closed. Nomination submissions are passed to Nominating Committee. |
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February 25 |
Session is advised of nominees. |
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March 1 - March 22 |
Nominating Committee contacts nominees to confirm their willingness to let their name move forward in the process. Session reviews list of all nominees to confirm that they are qualified for the role. Discussion and prayer ensue to consider the balance of giftings, strengths, experience, and diversity among current and potential new elders. Nominees are interviewed by Nominating Committee. |
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March 23 |
Nominating Committee submits a final list of candidates to Session for review. |
VOTING PHASE |
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April 5 & 12 |
Notice of upcoming vote is made to the congregation. |
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April 17 |
Session approves standing candidates for the Elder Selection Ballot. |
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April 20 |
Voting information is mailed and/or emailed to members with names for the Elder Selection Ballot. Members are invited to confirm the calling of each nominee through their vote. Votes are received online and by mail. |
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May 4 |
Voting by members closes. |
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Week of May 4 |
Nominating Committee tabulates the vote. |
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Week of May 4 |
Nominating Committee reports the results of the vote to Session. |
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May 10 |
Edict of Ordination is read during worship. |
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May - June |
New elders are inducted/ordained at worship; new elder training. |
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June 30 |
Newly ordained elders attend Session meeting. |