Session
The Session is the governing body of every Presbyterian Church (USA) congregation. Here at Wayside it is comprised of twenty-one Ruling Elders, the Clerk, and both Pastors. Session meets most months on the second Wednesday, as well as at other times for called meetings. The elders of Session are responsible for all the ministries of the church, some of which they delegate to the Deacons, and are also the Trustees of the church, with responsibility for both the financial and physical assets of the church.
The Session has committees which meet regularly:
- Spiritual Nurture & Education
- Outreach
- Generosity
- Congregational Development & Nurture
- Worship, Music & Fine Arts
- Nominating
- Personnel
- Building
- Grounds
- Budget and Finance
- Technology
Deacons
The ministry of deacon as set forth in Scripture is one of compassion, witness, and service, sharing in the redeeming love of Jesus Christ for the poor, the hungry, the sick, the lost, the friendless, the oppressed, those burdened by unjust policies or structures, or anyone in distress. Persons of spiritual character, honest repute, exemplary lives, brotherly and sisterly love, sincere compassion, and sound judgment should be chosen for this ministry.
The Deacons Ministry is under the supervision and authority of the session. Deacons may also be given special assignments in the congregation, such as caring for members in need, handling educational tasks, cultivating liberality in giving, collecting and disbursing monies to specific persons or causes, or overseeing the buildings and property of the congregation. Deacons shall assume other duties as may be delegated to them by the session, including assisting with the Lord's Supper.
Deacons Areas of Ministry at Wayside:
- Assist in serving the Lord's Supper every other month
- Care of the Sick
- Grief Ministry
- Care of the Hungry
- Community Care
- Wedding Assistants
- Care of Visitors
- Visitation of Older Adults
- Meal Delivery for Those in Need
- New Baby Meals
- Nursing Ministry
- Prayer Shawl Ministry
- Drivers to doctor appointments and to church
- Advocacy Team