The task of the elders is to rule in the name of the ascended
King, and as servants of the great Shepherd, care for the
flock.
They shall therefore: ensure that the Gospel is preached every
Sunday, see to it that the Sacraments are faithfully
administered, exercise Christian discipline, resist false
doctrine and error, visit the members of the congregation at
least annually in order that they may comfort, instruct and
encourage each one according to need, visit the sick and the
bereaved, promote evangelism, see to it that everything is done
decently and in order and that their fellow office-bearers
faithfully discharge their respective offices, having particular
regard to the doctrine and conduct of the Minister of the Word.