Leadership

Leadership is key in many areas of life, and Church is no different in that respect. Different Churches have different models, but at Acland Road we believe that spiritual leadership is in the hands of the ‘Elders’. This is not a term relating to age, but is the biblical term used for ‘leader’, and the role is predominantly a ‘servant’ role. We also believe ‘Leadership’ should be seen in a plural sense. Gone are the days of the ‘one man band’ mentality. Currently we have 4 Elders, one of these being our Pastor. The Elders are no better or worse than anybody else, but their role is a key one in leading the Church.

Our understanding of the Bible is that Elders have six primary areas of responsibility :-
• Leading
• Guarding
• Guiding
• Governing
• Encouraging
• Praying

As part of our wider Leadership Team we also have what we call Deacons. Their role too is very important. Deacons are to be people of faith and wisdom (Acts 6), and people who are actively demonstrating a servant’s heart. Their primary role is to support the Elders and to help to oversee the day to day running of the Church. Currently we have 6 Deacons of which 5 are female.