Who comprises the church session?

The church session is primarily composed of the pastor and the elders. In many church governance structures, the session serves as a decision-making body responsible for spiritual oversight, administration, and ensuring the congregation's well-being. The pastor typically provides spiritual leadership and guidance, while the elders take on roles of shepherding, teaching, and governance within the church.

Elders are often elected or appointed members who have a significant spiritual maturity and understanding of the church's mission and teachings. Together with the pastor, they are tasked with making important decisions, offering counsel to church members, and addressing various issues that affect the congregation. This collaborative relationship enhances the church's overall mission while ensuring that both spiritual and practical concerns are addressed effectively.

Other combinations mentioned in the choices do not accurately reflect the typical structure of a church session. For example, deacons often play supportive roles, focusing on service and ministry, rather than governance. Church members or parishioners are usually part of the broader congregation and may not hold specific governance roles like elders do.