Elder-led church 

What we mean by ‘elder-led church’ is our elders are primarily responsible for decisions and directions for Carpenter's Way while delegating specific ministry decisions and leadership to Carpenter's Way staff. 

We’ve found this model to be in accordance with examples given in Scripture and that it frees our people up to do the ministries they were called to do. Each year, elders are selected, serve for a 3-year term, and then are not eligible to be called as an elder for 12 months. 

We believe and have found this rhythm of 3-year terms to be incredibly helpful in balancing between seasoned elders with a long organizational memory with new elders entering a unique season of discipleship as they prayerfully lead Carpenter's Way.

Another result of this elder-led model is that Carpenter's Way does not have regular business meetings.

When we gather as a church, we are gathering primarily for the purpose of worship, teaching, and serving one another. This has created a comfortable environment for people at all stages of their walk with the Lord to grow and worship.