The Edge Church is a non-denominational Christian church and as such, is independent from outside hierarchical governance structures. The elders of The Edge Church affirm the need for accountability regarding limitations inherent in self-governance (e.g., crisis situations that involve elders). The Edge Church therefore partners with an External Advisory Board (EAB) to help address and navigate these situations, should they arise.
The EAB is formed by a minimum of 3 pastoral couples (husbands and wives) who minister outside of The Edge Church community. The EAB couple serves a one year term, and has the option to recommit or resign at the end of their term.
Example situations in which the EAB would offer its services
The following situations are not exhaustive, but serve as examples of when the EAB could be called to serve:
Moral failure by an elder such as marital unfaithfulness (abuse of all sorts: physical, psychological, spiritual, financial), sexual infidelity, or substance abuse
An elder believing and disseminating false doctrine (i.e., doctrine contrary to historic Christian orthodoxy)
Mental or physical illness that prevents elders from fulfilling eldership duties to God and to The Edge Church
Death or severe injury/long-term disability of elder or family member
How and when to contact the EAB
Members of The Edge Church may contact the EAB directly if they believe a crisis has occurred. To contact the EAB, Edge Church can use the independently-managed email address edgeeab@cometothewell.org, and all three pastoral couples will receive the communication.
If the EAB determines that false claims have been purposefully made against an elder by a member(s) of The Edge Church, the Edge Church eldership will respond with appropriate discipline, not limited to, but including being asked to leave the community.