The Session

The Session is the governing body of the church. This group of Elders connects and oversees all the various programs and ministries in the life of our church. The Session of First Presbyterian Church of Tupelo consists of our pastor, the Moderator, and 24 Elders who are elected by the congregation for three-year terms. The session is charged with managing the programs, ministries, and life of our Church. According to the Presbyterian Church (USA) Book of Order, responsibilities of the session include:

• - Provide for worship, including preaching, music and communion.
• - Provide for growth of our members through personal and pastoral care, educational programs, fellowship, and opportunities for service.
• - Receive members into the church.
• - Provide for administration of the church and management of church property.
• - Delegate and supervise the work of the committees.
• - Maintain relationships with higher governing bodies of the church.
• - Provide stewardship of money, time and talents given by the members.
• - Lead the congregation in ministries of personal and social healing and reconciliation in the community.
• - Lead the congregation in participation in the mission of the whole Church in the world.
• - Lead the congregation continually to discover what God is doing in the world, and to plan for change, renewal, and reformation under the Word of God.

Our Session delegates much of its work to eight committees, each of which is chaired by a member of the Session and include members from the congregation at large. Joining a committee is a great way to contribute to the church and your own spiritual growth while enjoying yourself and getting to know others in our congregation. All members of the church are welcome to participate in the work of these committees and are urged to use their time and talents to enrich themselves, our church and our community.

Church Officers