SOPC Facts | Structure

Seven Oaks Presbyterian Church is a PC(USA) church located in Columbia, South Carolina. We are a member of  Trinity PresbyterySynod of the South Atlantic, and The Presbyterian Church (USA). Our church campus consists of approximately 10 acres located in an area historically known as Seven Oaks (read the community history here).

The Session is the governing body of Seven Oaks Presbyterian Church and consists of the Pastor, Associate Pastor(s) and all active Elders. Each Elder serves a term of three years, with one-third being replaced each year on June 1st. In the event an Elder resigns from office, and more than one year remains on his/her term, the Nominating Committee is responsible for filling the vacancy. An elder filling an unexpired term is eligible for re-election immediately upon completion of the abbreviated term. No Elder may serve consecutive terms, either full or partial, aggregating more than six years. An Elder having served a total of six years shall be ineligible for reelection for a period of at least one year.

Moderator – The Pastor of the Church serves as the Moderator of the Session. The Moderator presides over all meetings and may call a special meeting when deemed necessary. An Associate Pastor, or other person designated by the Pastor, may serve as the Moderator in the absence of the Pastor or at the discretion of the Pastor.

Ministries – The Session is organized into eight ministries to implement its work. These ministries are: Administration, Building & Grounds, Christian Education, Congregational Care, Fellowship, Good News, Mission, and Worship. Each Elder is assigned to a ministry. The number of Elders on a ministry may vary according to need. Each ministry has a chairperson assigned by the Pastor. The ministries may be divided into sub-committees if needed. Each will have a chairperson. Ministries meet monthly on the first Monday unless otherwise stated.

Trustees -The congregation shall elect three trustees, three-year terms. Nominees shall be on the active membership rolls of the church and shall have reached the legal age concurring with current laws of South Carolina. There is no limit to the number of consecutive terms a trustee may serve.

Trustees are responsible for the following:
a. Receive, hold, encumber, manage and transfer property, real or personal, for the church.
b. Hold and defend title to such property.
c. To manage any permanent special funds for the furtherance of the purposes of the church.