Session
Learn more about the governing body of our church.
The First Pres Session is the governing body of the church and is composed of Pastors and Elders as voting members. Elders are elected by the congregation as ordained officers of the church for three-year terms at the Annual Meeting in the spring. There are two non-voting members: the Clerk of Session and the Executive Director for Operations.
The role of an Elder is to serve as a spiritual overseer of the church, determining church policy and exercising leadership, government, and discipline while acting as a shepherd to the congregation. Elders are expected to hold the entirety of the church and its mission and vision as well as offering other services. Serving as an Elder is a rewarding and demanding calling that requires Christ-centered commitment, ongoing prayer, humility, and discernment through community. Interested? See the Elder position description including responsibilities and qualifications.
Session Meetings
Session generally meets on the third Tuesday of the month; meeting dates are listed on the church calendar. Meetings are open to congregants, and time is allotted at the beginning of Session meetings for comments from congregants, if there are any in attendance. Each guest is allowed five minutes, with Session allotting up to a total of 30 minutes for comments. Guests may be required to leave if Session is conducting confidential business. As we shelter at home, if you would like to attend a Session meeting, contact clerk@fpcberkeley.org to get the details.
Approved Minutes and Meeting Agendas:
View Session materials, including approved Session meeting agendas and minutes. Minutes are generally posted four to five weeks following each meeting, as they are approved by Session at the following month’s meeting). The Session agenda is typically posted four to five days in advance of each meeting.
Writing to Session
To send comments, questions, or feedback for distribution to session members, please email clerk@fpcberkeley.org.
| Class of 2021
Martha Allen—Communications, Mission Leslie Badoian—Children, Youth, and Family John Barthel—Personnel Sandy Buscheck—Christian Formation Miguel López—University Andy Satchwell—Children, Youth, and Family Anna Fellers—Nominating Committee |
Class of 2022
Jason Draut—Stewardship Karen Erickson—Nominating Committee Bob Goss—Communications, Worship Monica Munger—University Aileen Schier—Facilities Eliot Smyrl—Children, Youth, and Family Leah Tang—Mission |
Class of 2023
Jill Boyce—Christian Formation Byron Brown—Personnel Barbara Brenner Buder—Facilities Mae Chan—Communications, Personnel Daly Jordan-Koch—Christian Formation Caroline Sallee—Stewardship Laura Sera—Caring Cece Carranza-Davis (Student Delegate)—University |
Steve Schibsted, Teaching Elder and Session Moderator
Mark Stryker, Teaching Elder
Tom Elson, Teaching Elder
Mindy Phillips, Clerk of Session, non-voting
Sue Burger, Executive Director for Operations, non-voting
