Staff
Leadership at Rivers Crossing is divided into two basic categories: pastors (synonymous with "elders") and directors/coordinators (synonymous with deacons). Both categories consist of paid and unpaid staff.
Elders
el•der (el'der) n. 1. Elected or appointed governing officer within a church. See 1 Timothy 3: 1-7, Titus 1: 6-9.
The elders ("pastors") of Rivers Crossing are appointed by God to shepherd and lead the flock of Rivers Crossing. The pastors/elders represent the primary leadership and convene regularly to discuss matters of sound theology, direction for the Church, and discipline with love for the people at Rivers Crossing. The elders wish to preach, teach, and counsel to the glory of God, and these matters are not taken lightly.
Deacons
dea•con (de'ken) n. 1. Attendant or assistant to church leaders. See 1 Timothy 3: 8.
Historically, deacons have served as both care providers and overseers of the church body, helping implement the vision set forth by the elders. Everyone on staff at Rivers Crossing is considered a leader of the church: an elder (very few), a deacon, or a deacon-in-training.
In addition, there are deacons who serve in a non-staff capacity, as well as countless volunteers whom Rivers Crossing depends on to be the hands and feet of our Church, the body of Christ (1 Corinthians 12:27).