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In the Directory for Worship of the Book of Order, the charge, as a part of the act of sending, is described in this way: “We are blessed to be a blessing to others...”
Baptism is a life-defining event that emphasizes a commitment from God to God’s family and from us to God’s creation. It is not a checkbox occurrence, but a lifetime process that is complete only in death. Therefore, it is important for the leadership of the church to keep the commitment of baptism always present as it gets involved in Christ’s mission by “studying Scripture and the issues of Christian faith and life.”
As Presbyterians we understand that the ministry of prayer is an essential aspect of our baptismal calling. In a recent edition of Regarding Ruling Elders, we were reminded that ruling elders—who are charged with the nurture of the congregation—can and should lead the prayers of intercession and supplication (Book of Order, W-3.0308).
The Book of Order reminds us that one of the ways a faithful member gets involved in Christ’s mission is by “lifting one another up in prayer, mutual concern, and active support” (G-1.0304). Upon reflecting on this phrase, “one another” and “mutual” seemed to stick out.
Regarding Ruling Elders: A Monthly Series for Serving Faithfully One Theology of Ministry