Church Structure

As part of the United Church of Christ (UCC) denomination, Ladera Community Church is self-governed and free to act in accordance with the collective decisions of its members. Church Officers, Council, Board and Committee members are elected annually.

Program Structure

Ministry Teams are formed and supervised by the Board of Ministries of the church and form the core of the church's program structure. Made up of both laypersons and church staff these teams fill needs for the critical functions of the church, as well as provide personal support and spiritual growth to individuals. Primarily Ministry Teams are formed to strengthen the three pillars of faith in the church's organizational structure: Worship, Faith Formation and Mission/Service.

Worship Pillar
Spiritual Growth and Community
Worship Team: With the Pastor as convener, the Worship Team seeks to collaborate creatively with the Faith Formation and Mission/Service Teams in integrating seasonal themes, providing a unified focus. To provide dynamic and meaningful worship, the team welcomes participation and feedback from the congregation.

Compassion Team: This team is in close connection with the Pastor, and seeks to respond to those in need of prayer and support, particularly in times of crisis, and maintaining connection to those who are homebound.

Visual Arts Team: This team seeks to enhance worship during various church seasons with visual art installations, and welcomes creative collaboration. Artwork by all ages is regularly featured as bulletin covers used in worship.

Faith Formation Pillar
Spiritual Growth and Nurture

With the Director of Faith Formation as convener, the Faith Formation Team sees spiritual growth and nurture as a lifelong process. All we share and do together – whether child, teen or adult - becomes part of forming faith. Faith Formation happens during worship, while working together in the garden, telling our stories, attending Sunday morning classes, participating in forums on challenging subjects, and just spending time together as a community.

Mission/Service Pillar
The Community and the World

With a layperson serving as convener, the Mission/Service Team plans outreach programs in the local community and worldwide. They work with service and relief organizations outside the local church concerning emergency and ongoing needs, both in the U.S. and worldwide. They make recommendations for action to be taken by the congregation's members to promote justice for all, regardless of race, class, sexual orientation or religion.