The Wonderful Side of Church Politics: My First Time Attending a Presbytery Meeting

I remember Pastor Moses telling me that he once taught a class on church government, and I remember lying and saying “that sounds fun!” I knew it was important, but I didn’t find the subject particularly appealing. Aside from my own sentimental aversion to church politics, I wasn’t sure what to expect when I went to Grace Toronto Church on February 27 for the Presbytery of Eastern Canada’s triannual meeting—a gathering made up of pastors and elders from Ontario to Nova Scotia working together to examine new pastors, review budgets, approve the formation of committees, and so on. 

Oblivious as I was to walk through the doors of Grace Toronto, I walked away filled with delight. Much happened during this 9-hour gathering, but I’ll share what gave me the most joy: singing praises to God alongside other interns, visitors, elders, and pastors; praying for pastors who have been called to preach the Word; hearing a short message by Pastor Agus Sadewa on our true freedom in Christ; witnessing brothers both civilly disagree with each other and passionately affirm one another’s gifts; and voting for motions to be approved before being told I didn’t have voting privileges. 

What I previously considered unappealing turned out to be vibrant, and I was very happy to witness God blessing his under-shepherds with a deep passion for the person and work of Jesus Christ. To quote Pastor Agus: “The gospel is not just a makeover; it gives you a new life.”