Ruling Elders for Limited Pastoral Service

As I continue to meet and discuss Commissioned Ruling Elder (CRE) recruitment and training with Presbytery leaders, one thing has become abundantly clear: many feel they need more! Whether it is because of increased need, cohorts of CREs retiring, or expanding validated ministries, many leaders recognize the need to expand recruiting and training of CREs to serve in their presbyteries.

For those of you who are reading this, you may be thinking of a Ruling Elder in your congregation who often assists with pulpit supply. Or perhaps there is a Ruling Elder who is excellent with care and visitation of congregants. Maybe it is a well-respected Ruling Elder who leads thoughtful bible studies. There is a path for them to lead in limited pastoral service.

Presbyteries are responsible for the recruiting, training, and commissioning of Ruling Elder to pastoral service. And though every presbytery is different, there are general approaches such as applying and interviewing with Presbytery leaders, a training program that includes required coursework, mentoring, and experiential learning, and finally an assessment of call and fit to serve within the bounds of the presbytery.

If you are someone you know who a Ruling Elder is who may be feeling the call to serve as a CRE, the first step is to contact your presbytery leaders. This may include your EP, Chair of CPM, or another designated leader who coordinates CRE training. If you are not sure who you need to contact, please feel free to contact me, and I will help you connect with your presbytery.

In Christ,

Tim Pollock, Commissioned Ruling Elder

tim@synodofthecovenant.org

740-624-2351