Which group is responsible for nominating candidates for ruling elders or deacons?

The selected answer identifies communing members in good standing as the group responsible for nominating candidates for ruling elders or deacons. This reflects the principles of many church governance structures, particularly within Presbyterian denominations where congregational involvement is vital. In this context, it emphasizes the democratic aspect of church leadership where the congregation has a role in identifying and nominating suitable candidates for these important positions.

Communing members in good standing are typically those actively participating in the church's life and upholding its values, making them well-suited to assess potential leaders who will exemplify the church’s mission and ethos. Their involvement ensures that the leadership reflects the desires and needs of the congregation, fostering a sense of shared responsibility and accountability within the church community.

In contrast, options suggesting that only the minister, only the Session, or any member of the church have exclusive authority may not fully align with the broader expectation for community participation and consensus in such governance processes. In many churches, having a restricted or unilateral nomination process could lead to disengagement from the membership and weaken the community's involvement in leadership.