Installation of Associate Pastor
Ceremonies Section 2050
It has pleased God, through the leading of His Holy Spirit through the church, to call to serve the ____________________ congregation/church as associate pastor.
This means that he will do the work of the ministry as a member of the pastoral team. He shall preach the Word, do the work of an evangelist, and participate in shepherding the flock.
The Question
[Candidate and wife stand and remain standing till after prayer]
- Brother ____________________, do you believe that God has called you through the church to serve as associate pastor of this congregation?
(I do.) - Are you willing to accept this assignment and to serve, by God's grace, according to the Scriptures, faithful to the congregation and the Conservative Mennonite Conference?
(I am.)
Sister ____________________, do you believe that God has called your husband through the church to serve as associate pastor of this congregation and are you willing to support him in that call and work?
(I do.)
Congregational Response
As a congregation, you have called Brother , to serve as your associate pastor. Are you willing to support him in prayer, to be open to receive and give counsel, and walk together in brotherly love in behalf of the church and for God's glory? You may express your affirmative response by standing.
[After expressing support by standing, the congregation is seated.]
The Charge
Brother ____________________, in recognition of the congregation's call to you and your acceptance of the call, we hereby charge you with the responsibilities of associate pastor of ____________________. May the Lord grant you grace, wisdom, and love to faithfully discharge your responsibilities and to serve effectively for the welfare of the congregation.
Prayer
[With congregation standing]
[Prayer lead by ____________________]
[Congregation is seated]
Greeting
[The newly installed associate pastor and his wife are greeted at this point by predesignated persons, including others of the pastoral team and the congregational elders. The congregation is encouraged to move forward to greet the candidate and his wife after a closing song and a closing prayer.]