Embedded Files
Church Officers and Leadership in the PC(USA)
Church Officers and Leadership in the PC(USA)
In the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.), leadership is shared and grounded in the belief that Jesus Christ alone is Head of the Church (Book of Order, F-1.02). The church is governed by ordered ministries that equip the people of God for service, leadership, and mission (G-2.0101).
Ministers of Word and Sacrament (Teaching Elders)
Ministers of Word and Sacrament (Teaching Elders)
Ministers of Word and Sacrament are called to proclaim the Word, administer the Sacraments, and provide pastoral leadership. They preach and teach the good news of Jesus Christ, lead worship, offer pastoral care, and equip the church for ministry in the world. They serve not by personal authority, but as servants of Christ and the church.
(G-2.0501)
Ruling Elders
Ruling Elders
Ruling Elders are elected by the congregation to discern God’s will, govern the church, and lead by example in faith and life. Together with Ministers of Word and Sacrament, they form the Session, which is responsible for the spiritual oversight and mission of the congregation. Ruling Elders reflect the Presbyterian conviction that leadership is shared among the people of God.
(G-2.0301; G-3.0201)
Deacons
Deacons
Deacons are called to a ministry of compassion, witness, and service, especially to those who are vulnerable or in need. They lead the church in caring for one another and reaching out to the community, helping the congregation live out Christ’s love through acts of justice, mercy, and service.
(G-2.0401)
Why Elders and Deacons?
Why Elders and Deacons?
The PC(USA) has elders and deacons because it believes the Holy Spirit calls different people to different kinds of leadership, all for the building up of the body of Christ. Elders focus on spiritual leadership and governance, while deacons focus on care and service, together reflecting Christ’s ministry of teaching, compassion, and love.
Rev. Nathaniel C. Mathews
Rev. Nathaniel C. Mathews
Hi! We’re really glad you’re here. I serve as pastor alongside my wife, Anna, and we’re grateful to share life and ministry here. I studied Psychology at Bethel University, earned my Master of Divinity from Memphis Theological Seminary, and am currently accepted into a Ph.D. program in Psychology and Theology—because apparently I enjoy asking questions that don’t have easy answers! LOL! I also work full-time as a hospice chaplain, walking with people through some of life’s most sacred (and very human) moments. My work has led me to be an advocate of justice, equity, and compassion.
Anna earned her degree in Human Services from Bethel University and has spent her adult life in social work within long-term care facilities. She’s a Certified Dementia Practitioner, which means she has superhuman levels of patience, compassion, and grace.
We’ve served churches in Waverly, TN; Lubbock, TX; and the Nashville area, and we care deeply about justice, equality, and love—the kind that shows up in real life. Dr. Cornel West famously stated: "Justice is what love looks like in public!"
When we’re not working, I love books, movies, the outdoors, hunting, and a good laugh. Anna loves crafts, yardwork, and hanging out with our dogs and cat. We adore our nieces and nephews—and if you’re wondering whether you’d be welcome here, the answer is an enthusiastic yes.
Sunday Worship at 11:00 am
Phone: 731-986-5642
19835 E Main St, Huntingdon, TN 38344
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