“Presbyterian polity is a method of church governance typified by the rule of Assemblies of presbyters, or elders. Each local church is governed by a body of elected elders usually called the Session. Groups of local churches are governed by a higher assembly of elders known as the Presbytery; presbyteries can be grouped into a Synod, and synods nationwide often join together in a General Assembly.” Wikipedia
Six elected elders, that serve three year terms, meet each month (the second Monday) at Gladwyne Presbyterian Church. Pastor Todd Stavrakos moderates this business meeting which begins at 7:30 P.M. with shared elder-leadership for devotions and prayer. Discussion at the meeting focuses on action that needs to be taken, considering long-range planning, or developing specific initiatives that would help to advance the spiritual and community life of the Gladwyne Church faith family. While the elders are the elected officers of the community, GPC believes that all in the community are called to ministry and leadership is shared based upon this principle.
Those that are part of the GPC session have been elected because of their commitment and dedication in helping to lead a small Christian faith community in the 21st century, mutually supporting one another in that leadership role. That sense of personal commitment to God, the teachings of Jesus Christ and to one another as leaders, then as part of a larger congregation allows for a development of both the Inward and Outward Journeys of Faith. The call to be Christ’s body in action is one that requires commitment, vision, leadership and most importantly support of one another in community. Those leaders who are honored with the title of elder at Gladwyne Presbyterian Church have been called to lead and to assist all members of the GPC faith community to connect with one another and with the need and hunger that is in the larger world, always helping one another to face the Christian challenge of being “in” but not “of” the world.
Pastor Todd Stavrakos: Moderator
Mark Fifer: Clerk of Session
Laura Cozzens
Wicky Dayton
Sandra Drayer
Linda Stevensen
Morris Williams
Gladwyne Presbyterian Church 