Order of Elders

The Order of Elders in the Greater New Jersey Conference is a community of clergy who share a covenant grounded in our call to ministries of Word, Sacrament, Order, and Service. We exist to support one another in this sacred vocation, to encourage faithful leadership, and to strengthen the connection we share across the Conference.

As elders, we commit ourselves to a life of mutual care, accountability, and ongoing formation. We gather, learn, and serve together because none of us fulfills this calling alone. Our work is to nurture healthy clergy, cultivate strong and courageous leadership, and uphold the commitments we have made to Christ, to the Church, and to one another.

This page provides updates on current projects, conversations, and opportunities within the Order of Elders as we live out our shared covenant.

At the request of Bishop Cynthia Moore-Koikoi, and in collaboration with the Order of Deacons and the Fellowship of Local Pastors & Associate Members, the Order of Elders has been helping lead the development of the GNJUMC Clergy Social Media Guidelines & Best Practices.

These guidelines are rooted in the Book of Discipline, the Social Principles, and our shared Wesleyan commitments to do no harm, do good, and stay in love with God. They are intended to provide a faithful framework for our shared digital witness as clergy serving in appointed, assigned, retired, and other authorized ministry settings.

The guidelines are advisory in nature and are not disciplinary policy, enforceable procedure, or actionable complaint material. Rather, they are designed to support thoughtful, responsible, and grace-filled engagement in online spaces.

This is now the fourth draft of the document, shaped by clergy feedback and ongoing collaborative work. The goal is to bring a final version for approval during the Executive Session of Annual Conference.

We encourage all clergy to review the draft, participate in the conversation, and help shape a final version that reflects both the integrity of our ministry and the realities of our digital age.

(DRAFT) Clergy Social Media Guidelines
[DRAFT Clergy Social Media Guidelines PDF]

The Order of Elders will meet during Annual Conference on Monday, May 18 at 4:30 p.m. in Ballroom A.

This gathering is an important time for connection, shared updates, and conversation as we continue our work together as an Order. All elders are encouraged to attend.

We look forward to gathering in covenant, encouragement, and renewed commitment during Annual Conference.

For more information, contact Rev. Luana Cook Scott of Morristown UMC at LCookScott@morristownumc.org.