Search Process for Installed Pastors & Associate Pastors

Search Process for Installed Pastors & Associate Pastors

*Some steps may not be applicable in certain situations. Please consult your COM liaison.

1. Pastor announces departure to session with COM Liaison or Branch Minister present.
2. Congregational meeting called moderated by someone other than current Pastor.
3. Congregation dissolves pastoral relationship; COM conducts exit interview.
4. Presbytery concurs with dissolution.
5. Congregation plans and conducts farewell to Pastor.
6. COM appoints moderator; session consults with COM about process for electing Pastoral Nominating Committee (PNC).
7. Congregation elects PNC and conducts mission study or other reflective work.
8. PNC meets on a regular schedule, with the COM liaison present at meetings frequently.
9. PNC begins meeting with initial orientation by COM Liaison & Branch Minister.
10. PNC prepares Ministry Information Form (MIF).
11. MIF approved by session, COM Liaison, & Branch Minister.
12. PNC begins to receive Personal Information Forms (PIFs).
13. PNC screens candidates & conducts reference checks.
14. PNC submits several names for reference checks by appropriate Branch Minister.
15. Interviews, neutral pulpit & COM clearance for final candidates (including sexual misconduct policy).
16. PNC extends call; negotiates terms of call with candidate; orders background & FBI checks.
17. Candidating service; congregation elects new Pastor.
18. Effective date Pastor begins ministry set in consultation with COM.
19. Presbytery approves call.
20. Presbytery conducts Ordination/Installation Service.
21. Six-month review with COM Congregational Advocate &/or Branch Minister.