Within the class of Elder are two orders: Teaching Elders, often called “Pastors”, and Ruling Elders, who are not to be viewed as less than “pastoral” and have no lesser authority than Teaching Elders. The Elders – both Teaching Elders and Ruling Elders – jointly share the government and spiritual oversight of the Church. It the responsibility of the Elders to jointly watch diligently over the flock committed to their charge, so that no corruption of doctrine or compromise of morals are able to take root. The Elders must take oversight and exercise government and discipline of the particular congregation, but also share in the cultivation of the Church more broadly through participation in the regional Presbytery and nationally as part of the General Assembly of the Presbyterian Church in America.

The office of Deacon is not one of rule, but rather of service both to the physical and spiritual needs of the people. This office is one of sympathy and service, after the example of the Lord Jesus; it expresses also the communion of saints, especially in their helping one another in time of need. To the office of Deacon, which is spiritual in nature, shall be chosen men of spiritual character, honest repute, exemplary lives, brotherly spirit, warm sympathies, and sound judgment. In the discharge of their duties the Deacons are under the supervision and authority of the Session (the Presbyterian term for a Council of Elders).