Serving Elders and Trustees

Serving Elders

Serving Elders are appointed to serve on the Eldership for a period of five years. This term can be shorter or longer when needed to ensure the Eldership continues to function well and maintains a balanced team.

Each year, at the Church’s Annual General Meeting, a ballot is held in which Church Members elect people from within the membership to fill any vacancies. Normally, two Serving Elders complete their five‑year term and two new Elders are elected to replace them. However, the number of appointments may vary depending on the number of vacancies and the availability of Church Members who feel called to stand for election.

Serving Elders share in the spiritual leadership, pastoral care, and decision‑making of the church, working together with the Minister and the wider congregation to support the life and mission of Purley United Reformed Church.

Church Trustees

All Serving Elders also serve as Church Trustees for the duration of their term. As Trustees, they share responsibility for overseeing both the spiritual and practical aspects of church life. This includes ensuring that decisions about finances, resources, property, and the general welfare of the church are made wisely and in the best interests of the congregation and the wider community.

Trustees work together with the Minister and Church Secretary to support the mission and ministry of Purley United Reformed Church. Their role helps to maintain good governance, safeguard the church’s assets, and ensure that the church continues to operate responsibly and effectively.

Meeting Format

Elders’ Meetings are normally held on the second Thursday of each month, except in August to allow for the holiday season. The meetings are facilitated by the Revd. Russell Furley‑Smith and the Church Secretary. Minutes are recorded, and follow‑up actions are reviewed at the next meeting to ensure continuity and accountability.

Although the meeting covers the practical and administrative aspects of church life, time is always set aside at the beginning for pastoral matters, prayer, and a short reflection. This reflection is offered by a different member of the Eldership each month, helping to root the meeting in worship and shared spiritual leadership.

New Serving Elders

New Serving Elders are appointed at the Church’s Annual General Meeting, which is normally held in June. The nomination process begins in February, allowing time for thoughtful and prayerful consideration of potential candidates.

Church Members may nominate two people from within the membership. Each nominee must then receive a second supporting nomination in order to move forward to the election stage.

At the AGM, both newly nominated Serving Elders and those who have previously been ordained may be elected. Elders who have already been ordained do not need to be ordained again and can be reappointed to serve a further term. This approach helps the Eldership maintain continuity while also welcoming new people into leadership.

The Church Meeting

The Elders bring recommendations to the Church Meeting, where all Church Members have a vote in the decision‑making process. This ensures that the whole congregation is involved in shaping every aspect of church life and in guiding how the church is run in accordance with its policies and principles.

Serving Elders and Chair of the Meeting