Elders and deacons
Below are some resources which are especially relevant to the work of elders and deacons.
Training office bearers to serve in Reformed churches
A study schedule for elders and deacons (basic officer training)
Called to serve: Essays for elders and deacons (This book contains suggestions for a thorough introductory training course for elders and deacons)
A well-ordered church: Laying the foundation for a vibrant church (This book is an excellent introduction to what the Bible teaches about the church)
Faithful and fruitful: Essays for elders and deacons (This book contains additional essays that can be used for more ‘on the job’ training for elders and deacons)
Planting, Watering, Growing: Planting Confessionally Reformed Churches in the 21st Century (This book also contains chapters especially relevant in the context of new Reformed church plants)
Elders
Foundational principles of Reformed Church Government
RCSA Church Order
A form to be used for an annual pastoral review
A guideline for evaluating sermons
Form for the ordination of elders and deacons
Recommended Books
With a Shepherd’s Heart: Reclaiming the pastoral office of the elder (Many of the chapters in this book appeared first as essays and some of them can be found online at the Christian Study Library)
Deacons
Foundational principles of Reformed Church Government
RCSA Church Order
A history of the office of deacon in Reformed churches (URCNA report)
Being a deacon in RC Tshwane
An example letter of calling for a deacon
Form for the ordination of elders and deacons
Recommended Books
The Deacon: Biblical foundations for today’s ministry of mercy