Governance
Symmetry Church observes two offices of the church as derived from scripture: elders (also called pastors) and deacons. The expectation for both elders and deacons is that they would live in a manner that is worthy of imitation in their commitment to community, to service, to evangelism, and to financial stewardship. Elders and deacons at Symmetry Church must be committed Gospel Partners.
To see our current elders and deacons, visit Our Team page here:
Elders
We hold to the belief that the office of elder (pastor) is outlined as being a plurality of men who faithfully live and preach the gospel in their homes, in their church, and in their greater community, ultimately submitting to the One Chief Shepherd (1 Peter 5:4, Hebrews 13:17).
Elders oversee the faithful ministry in every aspect of our church. These men establish and uphold the means by which we live out the Mission, Vision, and Values of Symmetry Church as the gospel goes forth into our community.
The appointment of an elder is a process in which the other elders invite the man to apply and be tested for a year-long process. This process is designed for the sake of the man being sanctified and for the church to affirm what God has been doing through his sanctification.
Currently, Symmetry has only one staff elder (Pastor Matt Prine); however, the elders of Restoration Church Bryan are serving as advisory elders until more elders are raised up at Symmetry. Please pray for the Lord to raise up men who are called, competent, and of high moral character with the capacity to lead.
To understand the appointment of elders, read our Overview of Eldership Process:
Deacons
The word for deacon in the New Testament, diakonos, is often translated as “servant” or “minister.” That is the desire for this office: individuals who will serve the church out of joy and following the manner in which Christ Himself first served us.
The office of deacon can be held by both faithful men and women from our congregation. While this is a formal office of the church, it is not one that comes with authority over church polity but one that supports the decisions of the elders in faithful observance of the scriptures.
Like the office of elder, deacons are to be appointed by the elders of the church. When appointed, these church members will have already been fulfilling the roles spelled out for them, meaning an appointment of a deacon is an affirmation of what the Lord is already doing through this faithful church member.
To further understand the appointment process, read our Deacon Overview: