Session

The First Presbyterian Church of Elko is democratically governed by an elected group of church members called Elders, who are collectively called the Session. Elder candidates are nominated by the Session's nominating committee or from the floor during a congregational meeting. If elected, Elders serve three year terms, unless they have been elected to fill the unexpired term of a previously elected Elder. Youth Elders are elected for a term of one year. Elders retain their title after their Session term ends.

The Session conducts the business of the church. The Pastor serves the church as the Session directs. The Session ensures that the church operates according to the Presbyterian Church USA (PC-USA) Book of Order. For more information about the the PC-USA and how it is organized, see this link.

Pastor Pat is the Session Moderator. He conducts the group's meetings at the church at 7 p.m. on the fourth Wednesday of each month except July and August. Session member Bill Nisbet is the Clerk of Session. He prepares minutes of Session meetings and takes care of most of the group's paperwork. The Session's Treasurer, Star Thomson, handles its accounting functions and works closely with the church's Financial Secretary. Youth Elder, Patrick Harris, represents youth interests on the Session.

The work of the church falls largely on these people and other Session members who serve as chairmen and members of Session committees. Session members and their titles and committee assignments for 2006 are:

Session Moderator–Rev. Patrick Mecham

Clerk of Session–Bill Nisbet

Treasurer–Star Thomson

Youth Elder–Patrick Harris

Administration and Personnel–Jan Peterson and Joan Zunino

Business, Finance, and Memorials–Mike Ward

Christian Education–Carolee Jones

Building and Grounds–Bill Girard

Membership–Ty Gunter

Evangelism–Vern Blessing

Nominating–Mike Ward

Worship and Music–Pat Harrington, Sharon Dunn, Art Ibrado

Mission–Tom Norris

Stewardship and LLP–Star Thomson

Church members are nominated to serve on the Session in whatever capacity their personal gifts suggest and God's guidance leads them. For more information about the Session and the activities of its various committees or to inquire about Session membership, contact Jeannie Gillins at jeannie@gillins.net or (775) 738-8159.