---

We would like to share two updates with you related to the Elder Selection Process:

Affirmation Period for Nominated Elder Candidate
First, as you may remember, a few months ago, we launched our Elder Selection Process to seek out qualified individuals to join the Elder Board in 2021 and 2022. In the past, we have sought elders for just a single year; however, in 2020, the Elder Board decided that in light of what is required of elders once they join the board, it would be wise for each elder to go through a training and development period prior to their term. Thus, in the 2020 Selection Process, the candidates selected were to join the board in 2021 and some in 2022, giving each group an opportunity for training. 

After a thorough vetting process, Dr. Gregory Carlson was selected to move forward and be approved to proceed to the congregation affirmation period by the Elder Board. Greg is currently the Associate Dean for Leadership Studies and Professor of Leadership at Trinity International University. He and his wife, Donna, have attended the South Barrington campus for many years and have served in various roles in their section and as small group leaders. Greg is a prayerful, mature Christian with a heart for God and the church. He has served on several national boards and pastored a church for 13 years. You can read more about Greg here. If you are aware of anything that would disqualify Greg from serving on the Willow Creek Elder Board, or you have any concerns about him doing so, please speak to Greg directly as soon as you are able. If this conversation does not allay your concerns, please submit your concern to kfabian@willowcreek.org by January 25, 2021.

Nomination Period for 2022 Elder Candidates
Second, we are opening a new Elder Selection Process for the class of 2022 on January 11, 2021. The nomination process will be open from January 11 through January 26.

As you may know, Willow is governed by a Board of Elders who provide spiritual oversight and direction for the church. They humbly serve by setting goals and establishing values around which we orient our ministries.

Our Elders serve multi-year terms, and each year, we add to the Board as some complete their commitments. Starting this week, we are accepting nominations for Elder candidates. Those nominated and approved would join the Board for 2021 and 2022.

We are seeking candidates who are engaged in the life of the church and model spiritual maturity and Christlikeness in all areas of their lives. If you know someone who would make a great Elder, please nominate that person using this form by January 26, 2021.

A few additional things to remember: a spouse cannot nominate their spouse to be an elder; the elder candidate must have attended Willow Creek for five consecutive years and must have led a small group or been in another leadership position at Willow Creek for two consecutive years. And, finally, we continue to be a church that values diversity (age, gender, ethnicity, professional and life experience, etc.) at all levels of the church, including on the Elder Board. Please consider this when you reflect on and pray about who you might nominate. You may submit your nomination here.