SUGGESTED GUIDELINES FOR FORMER PASTORS CONCERNING
OFFICIATING IN SERVICES & OTHER PASTORAL ROLES

The relationship between pastor and congregation is defined by God’s call.  This is a relationship characterized by trust and limited by covenant.  Relationships between a pastor and members and friends of the congregation that are formed are sometimes precious and valued.  We encourage normal, healthy relationships, and try to safeguard against words or actions that inhibit or misuse these relationships.  Pastor and congregation enter into a call from God together.  This call is affirmed by the Presbytery which also provides guidance and oversight into this relationship.  Therefore, when a call is terminated by the pastor, congregation or session, the nature of the relationship changes.  These changes include and are not limited by the following:

1.   A former pastor may be asked to officiate at services for members of Oahe Presbyterian Church, or at services within its properties, only upon invitation from the moderator of the session or, in case of the inability to contact the moderator, from the clerk of session.  (Book of Order G-14.0606).

2.  A former pastor shall honor the pastoral care and authority of the one who follows in that position and shall resist any attempts by him/her self or by friends or members of the church to intervene in the ministry or mission of Oahe Presbyterian Church, except as provided for in the above paragraph.   

Adopted By Session On January 17, 2002.
To be reviewed by the Session.