The Organizational Structure of East Church
East Congregational Church belongs to the United Church of Christ denomination. Although we embrace the policies of and participate in many of the programs and initiatives of the UCC, as a church community we are largely self-governed. It takes many committed individuals and many committees to keep East Church functioning. Following is a list of the Standing Committees at East Church with brief summaries of each committee’s scope and mission.
Standing Committees of the Church
These committees assist the staff in administering the programs and ministries of the church. In addition to performing their particular tasks, many incorporate a spiritual component in their meeting time.
CHURCH COUNCIL
The group that oversees the business of the church. It is made up of chairs of different committees and the church officers. Meets monthly. Anyone is welcome to attend.
DEACONS
Support the Pastor in nurturing the spiritual life of the congregation through worship, sacrament and pastoral care. They review and discuss all aspects of worship, prepare and serve communion, visit the sick and at-home members and generally tend to the welfare of the congregation. Meet monthly.
CHRISTIAN EDUCATION COMMITTEE
Oversees church school, youth groups and adult education. Organizes intergenerational events such as the Birthday Bash and the picnic. Meets monthly.
BENEVOLENCE/SOCIAL ACTION
Distributes benevolence money to different missions, and supports the outreach of the church. Meets as needed.
FINANCE AND BUDGET COMMITTEES
Responsible for all church financial matters from weekly collection to investments. Members work with Financial officers of the church. Meet as needed.
CHURCH GROWTH AND DEVELOPMENT
Seeks to attract, welcome and assimilate new members and friends. Organizes events to strengthen the relationships in the church such as the Pastor's Open House and the Progressive Supper. Meets monthly.
HOSPITALITY
Organizes volunteers and serves Coffee Hour weekly.
MUSIC COMMITTEE
Works with the organist/choir director to enhance the musical programs and ministries of the church. Meets 2 or 3 times a year.
PROPERTY
Responsible for maintaining the physical plant of the church.
STEWARDSHIP
Organizes the annual pledge drive in the spring.
Small Group Ministries
These groups are often off shoots of standing committees and provide places for individuals to deepen their faith and use their gifts in service to the church. These groups are discussed in greater detail on the Small Group Page.
THE WOMEN’S SOCIETY
This is a long standing women’s group that seeks to create opportunities for informational and spiritual fellowship among the women of the church. Meets five Tuesdays from October to May for lunch, conversation and a program of interest.
THE MUSIC MINISTRY
The Adult Choir - sing at Sunday and special services during the year.
The Millennium Choir – sing at worship service monthly and is open to children beginning at age six.
Other Opportunities - Musicians of all ages are welcome to supplement our musical ministry.
THE HEALING MINISTRY
A small group that meets on the first Wednesday of each month for an intimate service of prayer and the laying on of hands. Members also assist in a yearly healing service for the congregation and may visit those who are sick.
THE SERIOUSLY SEEKING SOMETHING GROUPS
This group explores their faith in on-going discussion and readings. Once formed, this group is closed so that trust develops and honest conversation is possible. Meeting frequency is the second and fourth Tuesday of the month. Open enrollments occur in January and September.
Officers of the Church
Church Moderator
Head of the Church Council
Comptroller and Treasurer
Manages the finances and budget of the church and maintain the computer system.
Clerk
Keeps the records of the church and minutes of the Church Council.
