OUR GOVERNMENT

The Orchard's government is described in the New Testament.  The pastor is the leader and is a permanent, local figure.  He is not removed from the church by a board.  He stays through good times and bad, guiding his plan through its 30-40 year lifespan.  The pastor appoints elders who meet the biblical qualifications of 1 Timothy 3 and Titus 2.  The pastor believes in, and submits to, the counsel of the elders. 

The Orchard is not a part of a denomination, although we are vitally (and more importantly) linked to other churches by shared goals.  We are a legally incorporated organization, having a board consisting of a president, vice president, secretary, and treasurer.  Our financial support comes solely from the tithes and offerings of the people.