Session
In the Presbyterian Church, the governing body of Christ Our Anchor is the Session. Moderated by the Pastor, and led by the Clerk of Session, the Elders of our church, elected by the congregation, meet monthly to manage and organize the affairs of the church. This is accomplished largely through a number of committees, staffed by volunteers and usually headed by two Elders.
Administration Committee
The Administration Committee of Christ Our Anchor Presbyterian Church provides the framework that enables the church to function effectively. Currently composed of two (2) elders from the session and members at large from the congregation, the Committee carries out responsibilities related to the administrative tasks required for the effective operation of the church. These include but are not limited to financial, personnel and general administrative support.
By way of definition, to “administer” is to have charge of, to direct, or to manage. Upon further examination one also finds that to administer is to mete out, to dispense, to impose, to offer, to tender and finally TO SERVE.
Christian Education
Christian Education is at the heart of the church. Our teachers and leaders reflect that in the loving care they put into every lesson and every activity.
Under the CE umbrella are these vital programs:
- Sunday School for ages 4 through grade 5: The “Feasting on the Word” curriculum follows the church lectionary so the whole family is on the same page
- Adult Sunday School: Meeting between services, this active group takes on a wide range of challenges to deepen their spiritual knowledge and fellowship
- Youth Group: Where the fire of the Holy Spirit is ignited every week!
- Anchors-A-Wee: COA’s very own preschool serving children ages 2-pre-K
- Vacation Bible School: A fun way for school-aged children to praise God and make new friends in the summer!
- Youth and Children’s Choir: Provides an opportunity for young voices to share God’s love through music
Congregational Connection Committee
In concert with the Session, the Congregational Connection Committee plans and implements our church’s efforts in attracting and reaching new members through personal connections, congregational outreach in our local community, and coordination of small group ministries within the COA church family.
Mission Committee: “COA–Anchored in Mission”
Christ Our Anchor’s Mission Committee is committed to serving the Lord and the body of Christ. Mission Committee members and the congregation serve both local and global needs in a variety of way. One of the greatest gifts that God has given to each of us is the ability to serve others in his name. COA believes that and reaffirms it with every mission we undertake.
“As for me and my house, we will serve the Lord.” Joshua 24:15
Property Committee
The main function of the property committee is to ensure that the building and grounds are well maintained and improved as needed. This includes grass cutting , snow removal, care of the memorial gardens and flowerbeds, maintenance of all equipment and painting. The committee plans and organizes annual spring and fall workdays for upkeep and maintenance of the building and grounds. The committee also ensures the building is in safe condition, making sure all exits are accessible in case of emergencies and locked when the premises are vacant. The committee supervises church functions that utilize church equipment, oversees purchasing and inventory records and maintenance and repair of equipment that require outside contracts such as pest control, fire prevention and plumbing. The committee develops an annual budget to meet the needs of the property, submits an annual report outlining the past year’s activities and develops a five year plan for building updates, maintenance and improvements.
Worship Committee
Sunday worship is a vital component of life at Christ Our Anchor. This is where we, as a Christian community, come together to pray, sing, renew our spirits, and rejuvenate ourselves for the upcoming week. We are blessed to have a dedicated Pastor whose gift for preaching allows us to receive a message that is Scripture-based, and yet applies to our lives today. Our focus on the lesson, or sermon, in the Presbyterian Church reminds us of our Reformed tradition and gives us reason to gather as believers in Christ’s name. Here, we listen, we learn, we participate, we receive The Lord’s Supper, and we are grateful.
Our committee meets once a month with Pastor Jessie and our talented music staff to plan and fine tune the variety of services that occur during the church year. Music, paraments, and church decor are chosen to coordinate with lectionary readings and sermon themes especially during Advent and Lenten seasons. Our hope is that worship at COA provides those in attendance with the spiritual fulfillment they seek.
Deacons
Moderator of the Deacons: Deb Sweigart
“With love and energy, the Deacons at COA will seek to care for and support members and friends of the church, to lift each other up in daily prayer, and to provide opportunities for Christian fellowship.”
Treasurer
John has been a member of COA since 1990, and treasurer since 1992.
He currently works for USDA in Washington, and holds an MBA from Johns Hopkins University.
