The following statement was adopted by Synod 2001 as a guideline for classes and synodical deputies as they decide whether a job description is appropriate for the office of Ministry Associate*:
“The office of evangelist may be understood to have the character of pastoral extension. Evangelists extend the work of pastoral leadership by founding and working in new congregations and by extending the ministry of organized congregations into specialized areas, including, but not limited to, youth ministry, education, pastoral care, worship, and evangelism (Cf. Church order Article 24). By the broader application of the office of evangelist, with its existing regulations, to a variety of ministry positions, the church avoids the multiplication of offices and provides a way of recognizing and regulating a variety of pastoral positions in our churches. These positions may be identified by titles that indicate their ministry distinctiveness such as chaplain, pastor or education, pastor of youth, minister of congregational life, and so forth.” (Acts of Synod 2001, p. 506)
*Note: In 2001 the office was known as “evangelist”. The title was changed to “Ministry Associate” by the Synod of 2003.
