Governance

GOVERNANCE

CONTACTS:

Tom York
Pastor

Christena Alcorn
Associate Pastor

Jack Plattner
Clerk of Session

Knox Presbyterian Church is a congregation of the Presbyterian Church USA and is governed by its Book of Order and Constitution.

Locally, the church is directed by the Session-Board of Trustees. This body is responsible for overseeing the mission and ministry of Knox Church. 24 members elected by the congregation serve as elders on the Session-Board of Trustees. They serve as active elders for a three-year period and meet with the clergy and staff of the church to implement the wide range of ministries of the congregation. The work of the Session-Board of Trustees is primarily accomplished through committees, each chaired by an elder in active service with additional members elected from the congregation-at-large.

The Deacons of Knox Church are ordained officers who serve members and friends of Knox, both in times of distress and celebration, through a number of ministries. Included on the Board are eight Youth Deacons, whose ministries serve both their fellow youth, and the church at large.

The standing committees of the Session, which meet monthly, are:


Buildings & Grounds	Mission & Social Concerns
Worship & Music	Personnel
Stewardship, Budget & Finance	Membership & Congregational Life
Community Programs & Relationships	Christian Education
Deepening & Sharing the Faith	Stewardship

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COMMITTEES AND BOARDS

Board of Deacons - The Deacons of Knox Church are ordained officers who serve members and friends of Knox, both in times of distress and celebration, through a number of ministries. Included on the Board are eight Youth Deacons, whose ministries serve both their fellow youth, and the church at large. Contact Heidi Knellinger, Chair.

Budget & Finance – This committee encourages contributions of time, talent and financial pledges, in order to ensure that Knox continues to meet the spiritual needs of its members, and be a strong presence in its support of local, national and international mission. It also recommends an annual operating budget and reviews the finances of the church on a monthly basis. Contact Terry Bruck, Chair.

Buildings and Grounds – Maintenance of the church buildings and properties is overseen by this committee, which also proposes building improvements as they are needed. Contact Jim Constable, Chair.

Christian Education – With the counsel of our Christian Educator, Roz Resnik, this committee coordinates children’s, youth and adult education. They select curricula and work with Sunday school teachers, as well as book speakers for adult education, and plan forums and classes. Contact Jill Moormann, Chair.

Community Programs & Relations – We strive to both reach the needs of families and businesses in the immediate community, and foster an interaction with them, toward the benefit of the area. Our Jazz on Michigan Series is one way in which we do this, by being visible and welcoming to all who happen to drive or walk by. We have also partnered with neighboring churches in mission, adult education and worship services. Contact Brent Graham, Chair.

Deepening the Faith - This newly formed committee will create and publicize opportunities for personal growth and enrichment in faith, including small group development, a listing of resources, seasonal devotions, and others. This spiritual focus will complement that of continuing Christian education. Contact John Getgey, Chair.

Membership & Congregational Life – This committee creates and coordinates opportunities for fellowship, both church-wide and for smaller groups. It also oversees our outreach to visitors, and our education and welcome of new members into the congregation. Contact Kathy Gottschlich, Chair.

Mission & Social Concerns – M&SC is involved in a number of different local ministries, such as the after-school tutoring program at Third Presbyterian; our mentoring program at Withrow High School; the Interfaith Hospitality Network (IHN), which hosts families in transition; and the Madisonville Education & Assistance Center (MEAC). The committee also identifies national and worldwide mission partners. Contact Larry Van Kirk. Chair.

Nominating – Would you like to be involved in making and coordinating nominations for church officers? The elders who comprise our Session, and our Board of Deacons both ordain three-year-term officers each year. Contact Kay Atkins, Chair.

Session/Board of Trustees – Session is the governing body of Knox Presbyterian Church. Members are elected and ordained to serve three-year terms. Contact Jack Plattner, Clerk of Session.

Stewardship – Whether its financial or time and talent, this committee's charge is to offer year-round opportunities for giving of all kinds, both to Knox Church and to the community. Contact Deb Fritz, Chair.

Worship and Music – How we worship on Sunday morning is determined by this committee, under the leadership of The Rev. Tom York. It works with all choirs; sets the yearly schedule for celebrating the Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper; and oversees all regular and special worship services. Contact Kerry Duke, Chair.