In order to provide helpful evaluation and support of the ministry of the Pastor, a "Pastoral Ministry Review Committee" should be formed. This committee would consist of one member of the Salary Review Committee, one Elder, and four additional persons, recommended by the most recent Nominating Committee. They should be appointed by the Pastor, and ratified by the Deacons. These appointments would be for an indefinite period of time.
Guidelines for choosing members for this group should include the following:
1. Acknowledged commitment as a Christian.
2. Commitment to the Church. (There may be one, but no
more than one member on the committee who is not a member
of the church, but who is moving in that direction.)
3. Having had some experience that suggests an understanding
of the Pastoral role.
4. Diversity should be sought so as to provide a variety of
views.
5. The Pastor's wife will be invited, but not always expected
to be present for meetings of this group.
These six people will meet with the Pastor at least three times a year, more if they desire to do so. Together they will discuss matters related to the Pastor's relationship with the congregation, the denomination, other local ministers, his outside ministry, annual study week, and if he chooses, family and personal issues. Time will be allotted to bring these matters before the Lord in prayer.
Once a year this group will distribute to representative parishioners a questionnaire related to the Pastor's ministry, and will assist him in tabulating and interpreting the results.
This group will make a recommendation each year to the Salary Review Committee as to whether or not the Pastor should receive a "merit increase" in his provision package, although this decision, amount, and distribution will be left to the Salary Review Committee.
From time to time the Pastoral Ministry Review Committee may also recommend to the Deacons changes in the non-financial portions of the Pastor's provision package, such as vacation schedule, study time, outside ministry, etc.
After this committee has been in effect for a while, consideration will be given as to how this same format can be established for Associate Pastors.