Official Workbook overture source text
Overture: 6-85
Workbook page: Contents page x; overture page 413
Source pages: Contents page x; overture page 413
Source status: source checked / public
6-85 To Standardize Vacancy Pastor Remuneration Guidelines WHEREAS, There are over 500 vacancies in our S ynod at any given time with the average vacancy duration approaching three years; and WHEREAS, These congregations call upon neighboring circuit pastors or retired pastors to assist with those vacancies locum tenens (to hold the place of); and WHEREAS, The number of pastors available to serve a vacancy is decreasing; and WHEREAS, Congregations need guidance from the circuit visitor or district president to determine appropriate remuneration for pastors serving the vacancy, especially if the duties of preaching, teaching, catechizing, and visiting hospitals and the homebound are divided up among several pastors, each taking a particular role in serving the vacant congregation; and WHEREAS, The current practices manifest widely divergent pay scales between adjacent districts, affecting vacant congregations within the same metropolitan area; therefore be it Resolved, That the Council of Presidents (COP) be directed to review current practices synodwide for the remuneration of pastors serving vacancies; and be it further 2026 Convention Workbook 413PASTORAL MINISTRY AND SEMINARIES