What does an elder do? 

The role of an elder is significant and brings with it great responsibility.  The Biblical role of the elders is to shepherd the congregation, oversee the work and health of the church, teach sound doctrine, and refute heresy.

What kind of person should an elder be?

Scripture provides clear guidelines outlining the qualifications of an elder.  Here are a few of the relevant passages:

²Now the overseer must be above reproach, the husband of but one wife, temperate, self-controlled, respectable, hospitable, able to teach, ³not given to drunkenness, not violent but gentle, not quarrelsome, not a lover of money. ⁴He must manage his own family well and see that his children obey him with proper respect. ⁵(If anyone does not know how to manage his own family, how can he take care of God's church?) ⁶He must not be a recent convert, or he may become conceited and fall under the same judgment as the devil. ⁷He must also have a good reputation with outsiders, so that he will not fall into disgrace and into the devil's trap. (1 Timothy  3:2-7)

⁶An elder must be blameless, the husband of but one wife, a man whose children believe and are not open to the charge of being wild and disobedient. ⁷Since an overseer is entrusted with God's work, he must be blameless—not overbearing, not quick-tempered, not given to drunkenness, not violent, not pursuing dishonest gain. ⁸Rather he must be hospitable, one who loves what is good, who is self-controlled, upright, holy and disciplined. ⁹He must hold firmly to the trustworthy message as it has been taught, so that he can encourage others by sound doctrine and refute those who oppose it. (Titus 1:6-9)

¹To the elders among you… ²Be shepherds of God's flock that is under your care, serving as overseers—not because you must, but because you are willing, as God wants you to be; not greedy for money, but eager to serve; ³not lording it over those entrusted to you, but being examples to the flock. (1 Peter 5:1-3)

We encourage you to nominate members of Cornerstone who are gifted for the role of an elder and have the character qualities outlined in the passages above.

How many elders are we looking for?

We are currently looking to fill two positions: Andrew Thiessen and Roger Kroeker both have terms that expire at the end of this year. Andrew has indicated that he is willing to accept another term. Roger is finishing his second term as elder, and is not eligible for another term. 

For information purposes, Brian Rowaan and Greg Epp conclude their second terms in 1 year.  Dave Froese concludes his second term in 2 years.

How does the selection process work?

Members of Cornerstone Church may nominate other members using the form below.  You are encouraged to speak to a person before nominating them.  The elders will review the nominations received and discern suitable candidates.  If the candidate is willing to let their name stand, we will present the name to the congregation and allow 4 weeks for comments before voting at a membership meeting.

Click Here to Fill out a Nomination