The support team for your work includes people designated by the classis to fulfill the roles noted below. It would be wise to convene this team prior to the meeting, in order to rehearse the format of the meeting, anticipate any special needs that might arise, and strategize ways to address anticipated challenges. Your classis’ Classical Interim Committee, a group of people designated by the classis to provide strategic leadership between classis meetings, may have guidance for you as well.

Your team: 

1. The Stated Clerk, a standing functionary position whose primary responsibility in the meeting is to record and archive meeting minutes.
2. The vice-chair (or two), who are prepared to provide meeting leadership should you need to step down from the role of chairperson for some reason. This role can also be of help to the chairperson when there is some question as to how to navigate a difficult process or lead a difficult conversation.
3. Your classis’ church polity expert. While this role is not an officially designated role, many classes have someone who enjoys thinking about and applying the church order. Make this person your friend.
4. A chaplain/prayer coordinator (if appointed by classis leadership).
5. An IT person (particularly if the meeting is being held virtually). The selection of this person might be done in collaboration with the host congregation, when a meeting is held in a church building in the classis.