Governance & Membership

Governance

We are part of the Baptist Association of NSW and ACT. We are not ‘governed’ by the Association but mutually choose to associate with each other. 
Hughes Baptist Church is self-governing and follows the Baptist practice of congregational government. 
The church is led by a council of elders, including the Lead Pastor, Secretary, Treasurer and four other elders. We also have a number of Ministry Leaders for particular ministry areas. While we uphold the authority of pastors, elders and other leaders, the final authority is the gathered membership of the church.  

Become a <span class="highlight-text">Member</span>

Become a Member

We encourage people who attend our church to become members. Membership is important because it’s the members who decide the direction, approve the budget and vote on key appointments, including new pastors. Our level of representation at Baptist Association assemblies is also a function of membership numbers.

Hughes Baptist Church voted in 2024 to move to Open Membership. This means that if you were baptised and confirmed your faith as an adult in a different Christian tradition, you can become a member. 

We think it’s important to establish, as best we can, that potential members profess faith in Jesus Christ as Lord and Saviour and share our commitments to the Baptist Statement of Beliefs. We seek a broad alignment with those convictions. We also ensure members are aware of church governance and service opportunities in line with their gifting.

To become a member, contact the office for a membership application form.