NO, we do not have a Priest or one man or woman leading the church in the role that many churches refer to as “the Pastor”. The organization of the church of Christ follows the simple pattern given in the New Testament. Jesus Christ is the only Head of the church (Ephesians 1:22,23; Colossians 1:18).

The headquarters of the church of Christ is in Heaven where the Head, Jesus Christ, is (Acts 1:9-11; 2:30-33). Christians in each community meet together to worship and serve God (Acts 20:6,7; I Corinthians 1:1,2).

Each local church of Christ is self-governing under Jesus Christ, the Head. They are led by men known variously as “elders” (Acts 14:23), “bishops” (Philippians 1:1), or “pastors” (Ephesians 4:11). These different designations all refer to the same office (Acts 20:17, 28; Titus 1:5,7; 1 Peter 5:1-4). These leaders must have all the qualifications given by God before they can serve in the eldership (1 Timothy 3:1-7; Titus 1:5-9). Deacons are servants of the church (Philippians 1:1; 1 Timothy 3:8-13) who also must be qualified before they can serve. Evangelists are preachers of the Gospel (2 Timothy 4:1-5). They may serve local churches under their elders or carry the Gospel into new areas (1 Timothy 1:3; Acts 8:5-40; 21:8,9).