SAVANNAH PRESBYTERY
“Servant of the Church”
MANUAL
3590 Darien Hwy., Suite 8
Brunswick, GA 31525
Phone 800.548.5534 / 912.264.1997 Fax 912.262.6815
www.savannahpresbytery.org
Savannah Presbytery
Manual
Table of Contents
MISSION STATEMENT. . . . . . . . . . . . . i
CHAPTER 1: OPERATIONS CHAPTER 2: POLICY
ARTICLE I: Name . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1 ARTICLE XXXIII Procedural Policies for Committees. . . . . . . . . . . . 21-23
ARTICLE XXXIV: Reimbursement for Ministers moderating
ARTICLE II: Final Authority. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1
Sessions in Churches without Pastors . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 23
ARTICLE III: Membership of Savannah Presbytery. . . . . . . . . 1 ARTICLE XXXV: Policy for Public Issues. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24
ARTICLE IV: Ministers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2 ARTICLE XXXVI: Criteria for Approval of Funding Projects . . . . . 24
ARTICLE V: Meetings. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2-4 ARTICLE XXXVII: Camp Policy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 25
ARTICLE VI: Officers. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4 ARTICLE XXXVIII: Mission Budget Procedures . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 26
ARTICLE VII: Moderator. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4-5 ARTICLE XXXIX: Budget Process Guidelines for Committees. . . . . 27
ARTICLE XL: Paper on Accountability in the Relationship of
ARTICLE VIII: Government. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5
Minister and Church . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27-29
ARTICLE XLI: Policy for Unspent New Church Development
ARTICLE IX: Executive Presbyter . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5-7
Budget . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29
ARTICLE X: Staff Associates. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8 ARTICLE XLII: Process for Validated Giving . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 29-30
ARTICLE XI: Stated Clerk/Recording Clerk. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8-9 ARTICLE XLIII: Policy for Paying Honoraria . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31
ARTICLE XII: Treasurer. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 9-10 ARTICLE XLIV: Fees and Honoraria for Pulpit Supplies . . . . . . . . 31
ARTICLE XIII: Financial Management. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10-11 ARTICLE XLV: Guidelines for Retiring Ministers . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31-32
ARTICLE XLVI: Requirements for the Commissioning of Lay
ARTICLE XIV: General Plan of Operation. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 11-12
Pastors. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32-34
ARTICLE XV: Coordinating Council. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12-13 ARTICLE XLVII: Reporting Responsibilities of Commissioners . . . 34
ARTICLE XVI: Administration Committee. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14
ARTICLE XVII: Christian Education Committee. . . . . . . . . . . 14 CHAPTER 3: PERSONNEL
ARTICLE XVIII: Committee On Ministry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14-15 ARTICLE XLVIII: Policies for Savannah Presbytery Support Staff. 35
ARTICLE XIX: Committee on Preparation for Ministry. . . . . . 15 ARTICLE XLIX: Work of the Office Staff for Savannah Presbytery. 36
ARTICLE XX: Laity Committee. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 15 ARTICLE L: Job Description: Officer Manager . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37-39
ARTICLE XXI: M.K. Pentecost Ecology Fund Committee. . . . 15 ARTICLE LI: Job Description: Administrative Assistant . . . . . . . . . 40-41
ARTICLE XXII: Mission Committee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16 ARTICLE LII: Job Description: Staff Associate for Small Churches. 42
ARTICLE LIII: Job Description: Staff Associate for Racial/ Ethnic
ARTICLE XXIII: New Church Development Committee . . . . . 16 42-43
Ministry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
ARTICLE XXIV: Nominations Committee. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16-17 ARTICLE LIV: Job Description: Staff Associate for the Laity. . . . . . 43
ARTICLE LV: Job Description: Staff Associate for Campus
ARTICLE XXV: Permanent Judicial Commission. . . . . . . . . . 17-18
Ministry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43
ARTICLE LVI: Job Description: Staff Associate for Christian
ARTICLE XXVI: Presbyterian Women Coordinating Team . . 17
Education . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 44
ARTICLE XXVII: Representation . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 17 ARTICLE LVII: Job Description: Staff Associate for Ecology . . . . . . 44-45
ARTICLE XXVIII: Savannah Presbytery Foundation. . . . . . . . 18-19
ARTICLE XXIX: Self-Development of People Committee. . . . . 19
ARTICLE XXX:Social Concerns Committee . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 19
ARTICLE XXXI: Swainsboro Presbyterian Apartments
20
Board of Directors Representation Committee . . . . . . . . . . . . . .
ARTICLE XXXII: Trustees of Savannah Presbytery, Inc. . . . . 20
Please note the date in the lower left corner denotes that section’s last revision date
Savannah Presbytery Manual
(11/02) OPERATIONS, POLICY and PERSONNEL
SAVANNAH PRESBYTERY
“SERVANT OF THE CHURCH”
MISSION STATEMENT
United in the love of God,
and commissioned by our Lord Jesus Christ,
Savannah Presbytery,
a member of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) family,
is called out of the world to go into the world,
supporting and encouraging the ministry and mission
of the congregations that are
Savannah Presbytery.
MISSION PLAN
We will:
Nurture and support churches and ministers through frequent personal
contact, particularly during times of special need;
Initiate and encourage communication with and among congregations;
Provide training opportunities and resources for Christian Education
and youth;
Provide opportunities for Spiritual growth;
Provide opportunities for Christian service;
Enable broad participation in the life and work of the presbytery
insuring inclusive representation;
Provide lay leadership training;
Develop plans for New Church Development and Congregational
Revitalization;
Promote faithful stewardship;
Be accountable for sound financial management.
Guided by Scripture, we will uphold the Presbyterian and Reformed tradition expressed in the Book of
Confessions and carry out faithfully the responsibilities of a presbytery as described in the Book of
Order.
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(11/02) i OPERATIONS, POLICY and PERSONNEL
CHAPTER
OPERATIONS 1
ARTICLE I: NAME
Section 1. The name of this governing body shall be Savannah Presbytery, Synod of South Atlantic,
Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). Its boundaries encompass the following counties:
Appling, Atkinson, Bacon, Brantley, Bryan, Bulloch, Camden, Candler, Charlton,
Chatham, Clinch, Coffee, Dodge, Effingham, Emanuel, Evans, Glynn, Jeff Davis,
Jenkins, Johnson, Laurens, Liberty, Long, McIntosh, Montgomery, Pierce, Screven,
Tattnall, Telfair, Toombs, Treutlen, Ware, Wayne and Wheeler.
Section 2. The three districts of the Presbytery will include the following churches:
District I: (16) Allenhurst; Butler Memorial; Faith, Rincon; First, Hinesville; First,
Midway; First, Savannah; Flemington; Mokchun, Korean;
Montgomery; Riceboro; Richmond Hill; Savannah Korean (NCD);
Skidaway Island; Walthourville; White Bluff; Wilmington Island.
District II: (13) English Eddy; First, Douglas; First, Eastman; First, Statesboro; Henry
Memorial; Lyons; Metter; McGregor; McRae; Mount Vernon;
Peabody Heights; Swainsboro; Vidalia; Washington Street.
District III: (13) Altama; Blackshear; Brunswick Second; First, Brunswick; First,
Darien; First, St. Marys; First, Waycross; Grant Chapel; Jekyll Island;
Jesup; St. Simons; Presbyterian Church at Frederica.
ARTICLE II: FINAL AUTHORITY
Section 1. The constitution of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)* Part II, Book of Order**, shall be
the final authority for this Manual. This manual shall be the prevailing authority in the
conduct of business of the Savannah Presbytery. As used in the manual, this Savannah
Presbytery Manual is referred to as the “Manual” and the Book of Order is abbreviated as
the “BO”.
ARTICLE III: MEMBERSHIP OF SAVANNAH PRESBYTERY
Section 1. The membership of Savannah Presbytery shall consist of all enrolled ministers together
with elders elected by the Session of each church according to BO. Every elder elected
to be an officer of Presbytery, and each elder who is a voting member of the Coordinating
Council will be a member of Savannah Presbytery.
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ARTICLE IV: MINISTERS
Section 1. Ministers seeking membership in Savannah Presbytery "shall have a call to a pastoral
relation within the Presbytery, or from a governing body or agency as defined in BO G-
11.0410, or be entering a work defined in BO G-11.0411 for which the Presbytery shall
give its permission, or shall be honorably retired as defined in BO G-1.0412,” (BO: G-
11.0402), or fit the description of an At-Large Member as described in BO: G-11.0406b.
Section 2. The criteria for membership in Savannah Presbytery is stated in the BO: G-11.0403.
Section 3. Ministers "shall be responsible for participation in the larger ministry of the church in
addition to the duties to which they are called and designated by the Presbytery" (BO:
G-6.0201).
Section 4. Former pastors, associate pastors, and assistant pastors may officiate at services within
former congregations only upon invitation from the moderator of the Session. When a
church does not have a permanent pastor, the invitation can be extended by the Clerk of
Session and reported to session (BO: G-14.0606).
Section 5. Ministers within the Presbytery shall be accountable to Presbytery in work designated by
Presbytery (BO: G-6.0201).
Section 6. Ministers honorably retired and living within the geographical bounds are not required to
attend meetings of Presbytery, but they are encouraged to do so.
ARTICLE V: MEETINGS
Section 1. Presbytery shall function through its stated and special meetings, its Coordinating
Council, its officers, its staff, and its committees and agencies which shall propose
programs to the Presbytery and execute those approved by the Presbytery.
Section 2. Ordinarily, stated meetings of the Presbytery of Savannah shall be on the 4th Tuesday of
February, May and October. Special meetings may be called when necessary.
Section 3. Ordinarily, the Coordinating Council shall meet at least three weeks prior to each meeting
of Presbytery. Reports from the committees shall be filed with the Coordinating Council
two weeks prior to the meeting of Council. Committees should plan their meetings in
order to comply with these scheduled requirements.
Section 4. Orderly process requires that all business coming to the Presbytery meeting shall be in
the commissioners’ hands prior to the meeting for study and deliberation. Therefore, all
communications should be received by the Stated Clerk no later than four weeks prior to
a Presbytery meeting. (see also A5_s4)
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Section 5. All information or recommendations to be printed in the Handbook for Commissioners
for the Presbytery shall be written under the heading "Recommendations" or under the
heading of "Information."
Section 6. All Committee Chairpersons shall write out the rationale for all recommendations.
Ordinarily, these shall be received by the Stated Clerk no later than four weeks prior to
Presbytery meetings.
Section 7. In order for an overture to the Synod or General Assembly to be considered at a particular
meeting of Presbytery, it must be received at least six weeks in advance of the meeting.
Section 8. All Presbytery meetings shall be opened and closed with prayer. Ordinarily, the Lord's
Supper shall be celebrated at the Presbytery meeting in February. The Word shall be
preached when the Lord's Supper is celebrated.
Section 9. Laypersons who are not members of this governing body, but who are members of one of
Presbytery's committees shall be given the privilege of the floor without vote of the
Presbytery meetings. Certified Christian Educators have the privilege of the floor.
Interim Ministers who are not members of Savannah Presbytery are to have privilege of
the floor without vote.
Section 10. The following is a guide for a docket to be prepared by the Stated Clerk, Moderator, and
Chair of Council:
a.) Registration
b.) Call to Order by the Moderator at 10:00 A.M.
c.) Worship Service
d.) Determination of Quorum
e.) Election of Moderator and Vice-Moderator (February meetings only)
f.) Adoption of Docket
g.) Welcome and Introductions
h.) Approval of minutes of previous meeting
i.) Communications
j.) Report of Executive Presbyter/Treasurer
k.) Appointing of Standing Committee(s)
l.) Special Orders
m.) Introduction and docketing of new business. New business shall be referred to the
Council or other body as appropriate for consideration and reporting at a designated
time
n.) Report of the Council, Committees, and Task Forces
o.) Report of the Standing Committee on Resolutions and Thanks
p.) Report of Committee on Absences and Excuses
q.) Two Minute Promotion
Section 11. The following are items that occur at specific meetings:
a.) October meeting only:
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1. Election of Vice Moderator for the upcoming year
2. The Presbytery act/vote on the Constitution changes to the Book of Order from
the General Assembly for the next General Assembly meeting – bi-annually
3. Report of Presbyterian Homes for the Elderly (Swainsboro Apts.)
4. Report of Commissioners to the General Assembly
5. Report of Commissioners to Synod (alternate years)
b.) February meeting only:
1. Celebration of the Lord's Supper and Memorial Service for the deceased elders
and ministers
c.) May Meeting Only:
1. Meeting of Savannah Presbytery Inc.
2. History of Church Pastors
3. History of Church Membership
Section 12. Procedure for handling absences of ministers and elders from meetings of Presbytery
shall be as follows:
a.) Excused absences, except emergencies, from the Presbytery meeting shall be
granted only upon request in writing stating the reason(s). Said written requests
should ordinarily be received in the Presbytery Office no later than five (5) days
prior to the meeting of Presbytery.
b.) Recommendations concerning excused absences shall be brought to the Presbytery
by the Stated Clerk.
ARTICLE VI: OFFICERS
Section 1. The Officers of the Savannah Presbytery, elected by the Savannah Presbytery, shall be a
Moderator, Executive Presbyter, Stated Clerk, Treasurer, and Recording Clerk.
Section 2. The Presbytery may elect Staff Associates for the work of the Presbytery.
Section 3. Presbytery Staff shall not serve as members of committees of the Presbytery.
ARTICLE VII: MODERATOR
Section 1. The Moderator shall be elected from one of the three districts on a rotation basis
alternating between Pastors and Elders.
Section 2. The Presbytery shall elect at the Fall Stated Meeting in October, a person to serve as Vice
Moderator for a period of one year and serve also as a member of the Coordinating
Council. The Vice Moderator shall then ordinarily be nominated to be elected as
Moderator for the following year. The Moderator shall also serve as a member of the
Coordinating Council. The immediate Past-Moderator shall serve for one year as
Chair of the Coordinating Council.
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Section 3. Any elder of a church in Savannah Presbytery or minister of Presbytery may be elected
Moderator. "The Moderator possesses the authority necessary for preserving order and
for conducting efficiently the business of the governing body. He or she shall convene
and adjourn the governing body in accordance with its own action." (BO: G-9.0202) In
the absence of the Moderator and Vice-Moderator at any meeting, the last Moderator
present shall preside. If no former Moderator is present, the minister of the longest
service in the Presbytery shall preside.
Section 4. The Moderator of the Presbytery (or whomever he/she appoints) shall be responsible for
Chairing and Moderating all Installation Commissions.
Section 5. The Moderator, shall, in consultation with the Chair of the Nominations Committee, have
power in the interim between regular meetings of Presbytery to fill, by appointment,
vacancies occurring in any committee or office of Presbytery, except the Nominations
Committee. Vacancies on the Nominations Committee may be filled in the interim, by
the Moderator in consultation with the Chairperson of the Coordinating Council. At the
next meeting of Presbytery, the person named for interim service on the Nominations
Committee shall be confirmed or replaced by the Presbytery. The Stated Clerk shall
report to the Moderator any vacancies to be filled. Presbytery Staff shall not serve as
members of Committees of the Presbytery.
Section 6. When a minister of Presbytery dies, a person shall be appointed by the Moderator to
prepare a memorial to be read at the following meeting of Presbytery, which shall, after
being adopted, become a part of the minutes of Presbytery. Sessions may request
Presbytery to include in the minutes, memorials for elders who have died. The Stated
Clerk will need memorials for ministers and elders at least six weeks prior to Presbytery
meeting. A copy shall be forwarded to the Stated Clerk of the Synod of South Atlantic
and to the family of the deceased member.
ARTICLE VIII: GOVERNMENT
Section 1. The Rules of Parliamentary Order adopted by the General Assembly of the Presbyterian
Church, and Robert's Rules of Order, Newly Revised, serve as the guide for the
government of Savannah Presbytery.
Section 2. To rescind, adopt, or amend any portion of this manual, the suggested change shall be
presented to the Coordinating Council four weeks prior to any regular meeting of the
Presbytery. Changes shall be introduced by the Council at that meeting of Presbytery.
To be approved, the changes must be approved by a two-thirds vote of those present.
Section 3. The manual may be temporarily suspended by a three-fourths vote of the Presbytery at
any regular Presbytery meeting.
ARTICLE IX: EXECUTIVE PRESBYTER
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(06/03) 5 OPERATIONS
Section 1. The Executive Presbyter shall be elected by the Presbytery. The Coordinating Council
will nominate persons to serve as a Search Committee. The Search Committee will then
be elected by the Presbytery and the Committee will bring the name of its nominee to
Presbytery. The Nominee shall:
a.) Be a person of strong Christian faith and character.
b.) Be an elder or minister of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)
c.) Be appropriately educated
d.) Be a leader
e.) Be a person of vision
f.) Be a good listener
g.) Have a diversified experience in the life of the church
h.) Possess demonstrated skills in administration
i.) Be fully loyal to the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)
j.) Be a person of proven commitment to Presbyterian doctrine and polity
k.) Encourage and cultivate ecumenical relationships
Section 2. Duties and Responsibilities - The Executive Presbyter shall:
a.) Serve as a pastor to pastors within the Presbytery and counsel with them when
needed.
b.) The Executive Presbyter shall be encouraged to:
1. Pray daily for the pastors, elders, and churches of Savannah Presbytery.
2. Participate in corporate worship regularly with churches in Savannah Presbytery.
3. Read and study the Bible regularly.
4. Set aside time to think about the work of Presbytery and how to make it more
effective.
5. Lead the Presbytery in conformity with Presbytery policy.
c.) Promote the total work of the Presbytery in the following ways:
1. Present to the Coordinating Council plans for long range programs for the
Presbytery.
2. Publicize and interpret the work of the Presbytery with Pastors, Clerks, Sessions,
Presbytery, Synod, and General Assembly.
3. Make an annual study of the statistical reports from churches and follow through
with appropriate interpretation to the Presbytery, particular churches, sessions,
and pastors.
4. Work closely with all committees of the Presbytery in carrying out the mission of
the Presbytery.
5. Oversee all policies and programs of Presbytery to see that they are coordinated
and carried out as promptly and effectively as possible.
6. Assist in the preparation of the Presbytery budget.
7. Provide for annual training for the Council of Presbytery.
8. Keep a file in the Presbytery Office of the work of all Presbytery groups, their
membership, their term of office, and other helpful information.
9. Plan an annual performance evaluation of Presbytery Staff. Have an annual
evaluation of their work and needs by the Personnel Committee of the
Coordinating Council and the Administration Committee as appropriate.
10. Keep up to date records of all property and equipment owned or rented by
Presbytery.
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(06/03) 6 OPERATIONS
11. Serve as chief executive officer of the Presbytery.
12. Serve as an interpreter for work of Presbytery in and beyond Presbytery.
13. Serve as Stated Clerk for the Presbytery.
14. Promote church-wide mission of the church in partnership with all governing
bodies.
Section 3. Relationships:
a.) The Executive Presbyter shall be immediately responsible to the Coordinating
Council and ultimately to Presbytery.
b.) The Executive Presbyter shall serve, or designate a staff person to serve, as an
advisory member of all Committees and Task Forces of the Presbytery. This
position is without vote. He/She shall convene committees in the absence of a chair.
He/she shall be an ex-officio member of Savannah Presbytery Foundation, and the
Board of Directors of the Swainsboro Presbyterian Apartments. These assignments
are with both voice and vote.
c.) In supervising the other employees of the Presbytery, he/she may delegate such
authority as is consistent with the abilities and duties of other personnel while
continuing to assume the responsibility for their work.
d.) He/she shall consult with Pastor Nominating Committees and prospective pastors
working with the Committee on Ministry, shall work with churches without pastors
in arranging for supply ministers, and shall secure Personal Information Forms,
Church Information Forms, and other information for use of the Committee on
Ministry and the churches.
Section 4. Terms of Call:
a.) The Executive Presbyter shall be elected for an indefinite term.
b.) Terms of the call shall include the following: an appropriate base salary of which a
specific amount may be designated for household expense; housing allowance or
manse furnished; social security; the Board of Pensions dues, or appropriate pension
plan in case of an elder; and Group, Life and Major Medical benefits of the Board of
Pensions for the Executive and his/her family. The basis of annuity payments shall
be salary plus house utility allowance, social security payment and housing
allowance. Where housing is furnished, 30% of the total of the salary and other
items shall be considered its value in computing the annuity. He/she shall be
granted an annual vacation of one month, two weeks Continuing Education, and
such other time as may be approved by Coordinating Council.
c.) Presbytery shall provide for its Executive Presbyter: an office, a secretary, and other
support staff as the Coordinating Council may deem necessary.
d.) The terms of the call and description of the duties and responsibilities of the
Executive Presbyter shall be reviewed annually by the Coordinating Council. At the
same time, the Executive Presbyter's work performance shall be reviewed. Any
merit raise resulting from the review shall be recommended to Presbytery. The cost
of living adjustment (COLA) recommended to churches in the Presbytery should be
considered, but not mandatory for the Executive Presbyter.
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Section 5. Registered Agent. The Executive Presbyter shall be the registered agent of the
Presbytery and his or her office shall be the registered office of the Presbytery.
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ARTICLE X: STAFF ASSOCIATES
Section 1. Presbytery Staff Associates may be called by the Presbytery to assist with the work of
Presbytery. The Staff Associate ordinarily shall be called for an indefinite term. The
associates will be under the supervision of the Executive Presbyter with the exception of
the Staff Associate for Ecology who will be under the supervision of the M.K. Pentecost
Ecology Fund Committee Fund Committee. Employment of Associate(s) will be in
agreement with Presbytery policy and procedures. The Executive Presbyter will be
responsible for supervising Associate(s) to ensure that responsibilities are fulfilled.
Responsibilities of Staff Associate(s) will be determined by the Presbytery when the call
is issued. The Executive Presbyter may assign other duties and responsibilities to Staff
Associates.
Section 2. The terms of call and description of the duties and responsibilities of Associate(s) shall be
reviewed annually by the Coordinating Council. At the same time, the Staff Associates’
work performance shall be reviewed. Any merit raise recommendations resulting from
the review shall be recommended to Presbytery. The cost of living adjustment (COLA)
recommended to churches in Presbytery should be considered, but not mandatory, for the
Staff Associates.
ARTICLE XI: STATED CLERK/RECORDING CLERK
Section 1. The Stated Clerk "shall record the transactions of the governing body, keep its rolls of
membership and attendance, preserve its records carefully, and furnish extracts from
them when required by another governing body of the church. Such extracts, verified by
the clerk, shall be evidence in any governing body of the church.” (BO: 9.0203a) "The
Clerk of a Presbytery, a Synod and the General Assembly shall be called Stated Clerk,
shall be elected by the governing body for a definite term as it may determine, and must
be eligible for membership in the governing body.” (BO: 9.0203b)
Section 2. The Stated Clerk shall also have the following duties:
a.) Keep a permanent record of all the actions of Presbytery
b.) Keep a roll of the committees of Presbytery, minister members, the churches of
Presbytery, Session clerks, active elders of each church, inquirers, candidates for the
Ministry, and certified Christian Educators.
c.) Conduct the official correspondence of Presbytery.
d.) Report to Presbytery all actions of the General Assembly which shall require action
by the Presbytery.
e.) Compile and transmit to the General Assembly and Synod all required statistical
reports.
f.) Notify all persons of their elections or appointments to specific duties.
g.) Keep a chronological list of minister members, officers, committees, commissioners
to General Assembly and Synod, and churches from which elder commissioners to
General Assembly and Synod have been elected.
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(06/03) 9 OPERATIONS
h.) Receive and record papers, material, and overtures addressed to Presbytery and
transmit same to the proper commissioners, committees or persons.
i.) Bring to each stated meeting of Presbytery the current statistics of the General
Assembly, the BO, and a copy of the current Roberts Rules of Order, Newly
Revised.
j.) Include with the call for each regular meeting of Presbytery a copy of the docket for
that meeting, and a handbook of needed documents and materials.
k.) Obtain from all churches of Presbytery the names of deceased ministers and elders
and make said list available for a memorial service immediately preceding the
Sacrament of the Lord's Supper at the February meeting of Presbytery.
l.) Edit the minutes within the intent of Presbytery's actions.
m.) Print the minutes of the February, May and October meetings to mail to ministers of
Presbytery, Moderators of Sessions, and to other Commissioners who request them
within 14 days after the meeting.
n.) Publish minutes annually of the February, May and October meetings and mail
copies to all Sessions, to the Synod of South Atlantic; to Candidates; to the
Historical Foundation at Montreat; and to any institutions of our denomination
requesting them.
o.) Have the minutes bound at the end of each decade.
p.) Send to each new minister in the Presbytery a copy of the Who’s Who Directory of
Savannah Presbytery, a set of the latest minutes, and a Manual of Savannah
Presbytery.
q.) Report to the Moderator of Presbytery any committee vacancies to be filled.
r.) Secure a place for the meeting of Presbytery provided no invitation has been given
at the previous meeting of Presbytery.
s.) Notify the Committee on Ministry, when a minister or candidate is to be received
into the Presbytery.
Section 3. Recording Clerk - The Recording Clerk shall keep a record of the business of the
Presbytery at each meeting as it is transacted, and shall deliver the minutes, type-written
and complete, together with all written reports, within seven days after each regular and
special meeting of Presbytery to the Stated Clerk. The Recording Clerk shall be elected
by the Presbytery for a term not to exceed three years. The Recording Clerk is eligible
for election to additional terms.
ARTICLE XII: TREASURER
Section 1. Shall have the following duties:
a.) Shall receive all funds from the churches and disburse according to the budgets
approved by the General Assembly, Synod and Presbytery.
b.) Shall disburse funds as designated by the churches.
c.) Shall report the income and disbursements at each stated meeting of Presbytery.
d.) Shall close the books on January 5 for the previous year and disburse funds to all
governing bodies as is appropriate.
e.) Shall submit to the Council an annual certified public accountant's report of all
receipts and disbursements of funds.
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f.) Shall assist the council and the Executive Presbyter in developing a budget and
financial operations plan for the presbytery and implementing the approved plan.
g.) Shall oversee the work of the presbytery bookkeeper.
h.) Shall approve all expenditures other than those in the purview of the executive
assistant.
i.) Shall be the principal check signer.
j.) Shall assist staff associates in preparing budgets and overseeing the financial
operations of the programs they manage.
k.) Shall assist committee chairs in planning, budgeting and allocating funds for
programs they manage.
l.) Shall provide training for church and Presbytery staff, financial officers and sessions
in financial matters.
m.) Shall assist the Administration Committee in the evaluation and procurement of
appropriate insurance coverage for the Presbytery and its various activities and
programs.
n.) Shall assist in the development and implementation of stewardship and risk
management programs for the Presbytery and its member churches as directed by
the Council and the Executive Presbyter.
o.) Shall be appointed an advisory member of the Coordinating Council.
Section 2. The Treasurer shall be enrolled as a member of the Savannah Presbytery in accordance
with Section G-11.0101c. of the Book of Order which states that a person who is
“elected an officer (other than Moderator)…. may be enrolled as a member of the
presbytery for the term of office, whether or not commissioned by his or her session.”
ARTICLE XIII: FINANCIAL MANAGEMENT
Section 1. The Coordinating Council shall submit in May of each year a challenge budget to
Presbytery. If approved, it will be submitted to each church, along with a suggested goal
for that church for the Mission Budget for Presbytery, Synod and General Assembly for
the following year.
Section 2. Each church will inform the Presbytery of its acceptance of the goal by December 1.
Section 3. The Mission Budget will be presented to the Presbytery for consideration and adoption at
the February meeting of Presbytery.
Section 4. The Mission Budget for the coming year will be presented to the Presbytery for
consideration and adoption at the October meeting of Presbytery.
Section 5. Mission Budget receipts for Presbytery, Synod and General Assembly will be disbursed
by the Presbytery Treasurer in accordance with the Mission Budget approved by the
Presbytery.
Section 6. Designated benevolences will be disbursed as designated by the particular church.
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Section 7. Presbytery funds for the work of Savannah Presbytery will be used as approved by
Presbytery for the work of the committees. Changes in line items may be made by vote of
Committees. Ordinarily, the total expenditures by a committee shall not exceed the
budget amount approved by Presbytery for that Committee.
Section 8. In accordance with G-11.0307, “The Presbytery shall have a full financial review of all
books and records relating to finances once a year by a public accountant or public
accounting firm or a committee of church members versed in accounting procedures”.
However, every third year, or upon a change in Executive Presbyter or Treasurer, a full
audit will be conducted.
ARTICLE XIV: GENERAL PLAN OF OPERATION
Section 1. The Presbytery shall operate through a system of committees with the work coordinated
by a council known as the “The Coordinating Council.”
Section 2. All members of Presbytery Committees shall be active members of Savannah Presbytery
Churches. Members shall be elected by the Presbytery to committees for terms of three
years. Replacement of a member whose term has not expired shall be for the remainder of
that term. Members shall not be eligible to serve more than two consecutive terms or
portions of terms except that service on the Nominations Committee is limited to one
term or portion of a term. Members of committees whose chair sits on the Coordinating
Council (Administration, Christian Education, Committee on Ministry, Committee on
Preparation for Ministry, Laity, M.K. Pentecost Ecology Fund Committee, Mission, New
Church Development, Presbyterian Women Coordinating Team and Social Concerns)
shall serve on only one of the above named committees during their term of office.
Section 3. The following shall report directly to Presbytery as needed or required: Nominations,
Self-Development of People, Swainsboro Presbyterian Apartments Board of Directors,
Permanent Judicial Commission, Representation, Savannah Presbytery Foundation and
Trustees of Savannah Presbytery.
Section 4. Each committee shall elect its own chair and a chair may not serve more than three
consecutive years. Ordinarily Committee Chairs shall be Presbyters.
Section 5. Each committee will spell out the tasks and the work expectations for each of its sub-
committees. The committee shall have clear expectations for each sub-group it forms,
approved by the whole committee. The sub-committees work with clear accountability to
the whole committee, which is accountable to Presbytery.
Section 6. Persons who have three unexcused absences from meetings of a committee, the Council,
or other designated activity to which they were elected, may be replaced by Presbytery.
The Committee Chair shall inform the Stated Clerk of Presbytery in writing when two
absences have occurred. After two absences, the Stated Clerk shall explain the procedure
to the member who has been absent two consecutive times.
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Section 7. The Stated Clerk, the Moderator, and the Chair of Council shall be authorized to appoint
an Investigating Committee in accordance with the Book of Order Rules of Discipline D-
10.0201B.
ARTICLE XV: COORDINATING COUNCIL
Section 1. The Coordinating Council shall consist of the Immediate Past Moderator (as Chair), the
Moderator and Vice-Moderator, as well as the chairs/moderators of Administration,
Christian Education, Committee on Ministry, Laity, Committee on Preparation for
Ministry, M.K. Pentecost Ecology Fund Committee, Mission, New Church Development,
Presbyterian Women Coordinating Team and Social Concerns plus three At-Large
Members, one to be chosen from each of the three districts and elected by the Presbytery.
In addition, the Presbytery’s Executive Presbyter and the Treasurer shall serve as
advisory members of Council. Periodically, Staff Associates will report to the Council
on their work as needed.
Section 2. The Council serves as the coordinating body of Presbytery. All decisions shall be
reported to Presbytery and shall be subject to its review. The Coordinating Council may
act with executive authority on behalf of the Presbytery in cases of emergency when
immediate action is required.
Section 3. The Council shall coordinate the work of all the committees of Presbytery. Ordinarily,
all recommendations to the Presbytery come to the Council prior to the Presbytery
meeting.
Section 4. Ordinarily, Council shall have the authority to bring in positive or negative
recommendations on committee reports and recommendations, but not to amend them.
However, by a three-fourths vote, the Coordinating Council may recommit a report to a
committee for additional study. After one such recommital, the committee will have the
privilege of bringing its report and recommendations to the floor of Presbytery.
Section 5. The Council shall coordinate the mission and program of the Presbytery as planned and
conducted by the various committees. In addition, it shall have the following
responsibilities:
a.) Nominate to Presbytery the Moderator-in-nomination.
b.) Initiate the process for the nomination of the Executive Presbyter/Stated Clerk and
recommend the terms of call.
c.) Nominate the Treasurer and recommend terms of call.
d.) Nominate Staff Associates and recommend terms of call.
e.) Nominate members of the Nominations Committee.
f.) Prepare the Presbytery Docket.
g.) Receive overtures for Presbytery.
h.) Prepare the Presbytery Budget and oversee the financial management of the
Presbytery.
i.) Oversee the examination of Sessional records of all churches.
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j.) Serve as liaison with the programs and activities of Presbyterian Women and
Presbyterian Men.
k.) Make recommendations regarding Presbytery manual revisions.
l.) Promote responsible stewardship in support of the larger church.
m.) Act in cases of emergency between Presbytery meetings and report any actions
taken to the next meeting of the Presbytery.
n.) Propose measures to Presbytery for action as necessary to clarify committee task
and function and to ensure the accountability of all committees to the Presbytery.
o.) Ensure that all eligible Presbytery Staff members are covered by the Pension and
Major Medical Plans of the Board of Pensions of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.).
p.) Provide representation for the Georgia's Cluster.
q.) Review Insurance polices and procedures of the presbytery.
Section 6. The Coordinating Council is authorized to designate a depository for the funds of the
Presbytery, and certify by resolutions or certificates the officers of the Presbytery
authorized to sign financial or legal documents in behalf of the Presbytery.
Section 7. The Coordinating Council may borrow funds in behalf of the Presbytery for the purpose
of making expenditures or paying expenses of the Presbytery which has been approved
by the Presbytery as a item in the budget and adopted by the Presbytery.
Section 8. The subcommittees of the Coordinating Council shall be the Personnel Sub-Committee,
the Mission Interpretation Sub-Committee, the Sessional Records Sub-Committee and the
Finance and Stewardship Subcommittee.
a.) The Worship Subcommittee shall be responsible for the planning of worship
services at Stated Meetings of Presbytery. The Vice Moderator shall be chair of this
subcommittee.
b.) The Personnel Subcommittee shall be responsible for oversight and evaluation of
the Presbytery Executive and Staff Associates. The Subcommittee shall recommend
to the Coordinating Council proposed changes in the terms of call for the positions,
for recommendation to Presbytery.
c.) The Mission Interpretation Subcommittee shall be responsible for interpreting the
work of the Presbytery and the budget needs of Presbyter to the churches of
Savannah Presbytery. The subcommittee will plan for effective interpretation of the
Challenge Budget at District-wide gatherings after the adoption of the Challenge
Budget at the spring meeting of Presbytery.
d.) The Sessional Records Subcommittee shall plan proper reviewing of the Sessional
Minutes of churches of Savannah Presbytery and recommend to Presbytery approval
“without exception,” approved “with exception,” or disapproved. Ordinarily, this
review is conducted in conjunction with the Annual Officer Training Event.
e.) Finance and Stewardship SubCommittee to assume the duties of the Budget
subcommittee of Council and the duties of the Savannah Presbytery Foundation,
thereby eliminating the need for those entities, and the relevant portions of the
manual be amended to reflect those changes. This committee will be comprised of
one member and one pastor from each district, plus one member selected by the
M.K. Pentecost Ecology Fund Committee. The appointment of this committee will
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be made by the Council but not limited to members of Council. This committee will
have the specific duties as follows:
1. To meet quarterly to review the status of financial operations and investment
activities.
2. Assist in development of the Presbytery budget.
3. Advise on changes in investment strategy for the presbytery.
4. Commission and receive annual reviews and audits and advise results of those
reviews.
5. Advise and report to the Fall meeting of the Presbytery, on the financial
effectiveness of our ministry and overall fiscal health of the Presbytery.
6. Provide leadership, guidance and assistance to individual churches in their
stewardship activities.
7. Promote the stewardship of the churches for the Presbytery and its ministry.
8. Advise in the appraisal of performance of Treasurer and Office Manager.
Section 9. The Coordinating Council shall guide Presbytery in its goal setting and evaluation
processes and shall recommend priorities for adoption by the Presbytery.
ARTICLE XVI: ADMINISTRATION COMMITTEE
Section 1. There shall be nine (9) members of this committee.
Section 2. The committee shall have responsibility for Presbytery work in the following areas:
a.) Employment, oversight, and annual evaluation of office support staff, the
preparation and communication of clear staff policies and recommendations
concerning compensation of the support staff.
b.) Oversight of the Presbytery Office.
c.) Oversight of the real properties owned by Presbytery, with the exception of the New
Church Development properties.
d.) Procurement of office property and equipment.
e.) Communication.
f.) Shall purchase and maintain insurance upon behalf of the Presbytery and the
individuals who are officers, employees, committee members, or agents of the
Presbytery, as well as purchase and maintain insurance on all real or personal
property belonging to the Presbytery.
ARTICLE XVII: CHRISTIAN EDUCATION COMMITTEE
Section 1. There shall be twelve (12) members of this committee.
Section 2. The committee shall have responsibility for Presbytery work in the following areas:
a.) Training of teachers, advisors and administrators
b.) Curriculum assistance, including promotion of the Presbyterian and Reformed
Educational Ministry
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c.) Children's Ministry
d.) Youth Ministry
e.) Adult Ministry
f.) Family Ministry
g.) Camps, Conferences, and Retreats
h.) Music and Worship
i.) Consultation with Christian Education leaders in local churches
j.) Resource Center
ARTICLE XVIII: COMMITTEE ON MINISTRY
Section 1. There shall be fourteen (14) members of this committee. All members shall be elders and
ministers.
Section 2. The duties set forth in the BO: G-11.0500 for the Committee on Ministry shall be the
responsibility of this committee.
Section 3. The Committee on Ministry shall confer with the Mission Committee, minister and
church when Presbytery supports the ministry of the church through financial aid for the
minister. The Mission Committee shall present to the Committee on Ministry a statement
of Presbytery's anticipated support which shall be attached to the call (BO: G-11.0502d).
Section 4. The committee shall have the authority to find in order calls issued by churches, to
approve and present calls (BO: G-14.0507), to approve the examination of ministers
transferring from other presbyteries required by BO: G-11.0402, to dissolve the pastoral
relationship in cases where the congregation and pastor concur (BO: G-14.0603) and to
dismiss ministers to other presbyteries, with the provision that all such actions be
reported to the next stated meeting of Presbytery.
Section 5. COM approved those serving on the Commissioned Lay Pastor Program Development
Task Force: Rev. Rick Douylliez, Chair; Richard Grice, Danny Grace, Audrey Stewart.
The purpose of the CLP Task Force is to encourage, train and prepare qualified Elders to
recognize and develop their call to ministry and to promote the ministry of CLP’s within
Savannah Presbytery, including:
a.) Develop and recommend a program of instruction which will prepare candidates to
be examined and commissioned as CLP’s.
b.) Administer the program of education and the overall development of candidates for
CLP.
c.) Recommend to the COM candidates who are ready to be examined to be
commissioned as CLP’s.
d.) Schedule and Conduct annual evaluations of each CLP.
e.) Develop a workshop for the annual Leadership Retreat that would give people an
opportunity to explore their calling to become a CLP.
f.) Identify congregations that might be well served by a CLP and interpret the CLP
program to them.
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Section 6. For examining candidates and incoming pastors, those ordinarily attending the
examination will be the candidate or pastor, the Chair of the PNC and one member of the
PNC and the examinee’s spouse. PNC’s will be made aware of this procedure by the
COM Liaison.
Section 7. The Emergency Response Procedure for the Committee on Ministry authorizes the
Executive Presbyter and the Chair of the COM to immediately respond in a fact finding
mission to any incidence of crisis in a church. They will then report their finding to the
Committee at its next meeting.
ARTICLE XIX: COMMITTEE ON PREPARATION FOR MINISTRY
Section 1. There shall be six (6) members of this committee, three pastors and three elders.
Section 2. This committee shall be responsible for inquirers and candidates for the Office of
Minister of the Word and Sacrament, functioning according to rules set forth in BO: G-
14.0300-.0314.
Section 3. The Committee on Preparation for Ministry has the authority to certify candidates as
ready for examination for ordination with the provision that all such actions be reported
to the next stated meeting of the presbytery in accordance with the Book of Order G-
14.0310, thereby allowing the candidate to circulate his/her PIF in a timely way.
ARTICLE XX: LAITY COMMITTEE
Section 1. There shall be nine (9) members of this committee, of whom six (6) shall be laity and
three (3) shall be ministers.
Section 2. The committee shall have responsibility for Presbytery work in the following areas:
a.) Plan the School of the Laity
b.) Promote the School of the Laity
c.) Oversee the work of the School of the Laity
d.) Plan one event each year for the whole Presbytery in the area of the Bible, Doctrine
or Ministry for the laity who are not enrolled in the School of the Laity
e.) Develop comprehensive plan for lay development
f.) Consult with Christian Education Committee on Lay Leader development plans
g.) Plan, implement, and oversee the Annual Officer Training Event
ARTICLE XXI: M.K. PENTECOST ECOLOGY FUND COMMITTEE
Section 1. There shall be twelve (12) members of this Committee.
Section 2. The committee shall have responsibility for Presbytery work in the following areas:
a.) Overseeing and administering of the M.K. Pentecost Memorial Fund.
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b.) Evaluating and approving or disapproving of requests for grants from revenue
produced by the MK Pentecost Memorial Fund.
c.) Reporting to Savannah Presbytery on the disposition of funds produced by the MK
Pentecost Memorial Fund at least on an annual basis.
d.) The Staff Associate for Ecology will be under the supervision of the M.K. Pentecost
Ecology Fund Committee.
ARTICLE XXII: MISSION COMMITTEE
Section 1. There shall be twelve (12) members of this committee.
Section 2. The committee shall have responsibility for Presbytery work in the following areas:
a.) International mission
b.) Evangelism
c.) Program and Planning support for churches
d.) Revitalization of congregations
e.) Ecumenical relations
f.) Interpretation of various International Mission causes of the Church
g.) Coordination of partnerships for mutual mission through General Assembly of
Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.). Proposing projects to Presbytery for joint mission
with partner Presbyteries.
h.) Campus Ministry
ARTICLE XXIII: NEW CHURCH DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE
Section 1. There shall be twelve (12) members of this committee.
Section 2. The committee shall have responsibility for Presbytery work in the following areas:
a.) Develop strategies, goals, objectives, and priorities for New Church Development.
b.) Recommend to Presbytery site locations for New Church Development.
c.) Recommend to Presbytery plans for financial support for New Church
Development.
ARTICLE XXIV: NOMINATIONS COMMITTEE
Section 1. There shall be six (6) members of this committee, two (2) ministers, two (2) laymen and
two (2) laywomen.
Section 2. Members of this committee shall serve not more than one term or portion thereof.
Section 3. The Committee shall, at the meeting of Presbytery nominate persons who are members of
the churches of Savannah Presbytery to fill vacancies (except vacancies on the
Nominations Committee) in accordance with the requirements of this Manual or the
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direction of Presbytery. Those elected to regular terms ordinarily shall take office January
1.
Section 4. Nominations shall cover the whole Presbytery as far as possible. The Nominating
Committee shall advise prospective committee members of basic responsibilities
involved in the positions to which they are being nominated.
Section 5. Each year the Committee shall nominate a replacement for any member of any committee
who has unexcused absences from three regular meetings of that committee. The Stated
Clerk shall inform persons being replaced of this requirement.
Section 6. Vacancies on the Nominations Committee shall be filled by the Coordinating Council.
Section 7. Minister and Elder Commissioners to the General Assembly and to the Synod, together
with Alternates, shall be nominated to the Presbytery by the Nominations Committee at
the October meeting of Presbytery for election at that meeting.
Section 8. For the guidance of the Nominations Committee, the Stated Clerk shall make available
the roll of ministers, listing the date each minister was enrolled in the Presbyterian
Church, the date of enrollment in Savannah Presbytery, and the last General Assembly
attended.
Section 9. In nominating minister representatives to the General Assembly, the committee shall
select representatives maintaining an active status in Savannah Presbytery, and shall
ordinarily adhere to the following guidelines with precedence being given in alphabetical
order:
a.) The individual's ability and willingness to represent the Presbytery.
b.) The longest period of service in Savannah Presbytery since being a commissioner to
the General Assembly.
c.) The longest period of service in the Presbyterian Church since being a
commissioner to the General Assembly.
d.) The longest period of continuous service in the Presbyterian Church.
Section 10. The Nominations Committee shall nominate elder commissioners to the General
Assembly from the churches of Presbytery, considering the best interests of the church at
large, and considering the distribution of commissioners from throughout the Presbytery
with special consideration given to those churches having the longest period of time since
having sent a commissioner to the General Assembly.
Section 11. The Nominations Committee still nominate commissioners to the Synod of South
Atlantic every other year at the October meeting of Presbytery preceding the meeting of
Synod the following June. The Synod meets on alternate years begin in June 1998.
Section 12. The Nominations Committee shall follow the BO: G-4.0400 as to inclusiveness.
Section 13. The Presbyterian Women shall submit to the Presbytery Nominations Committee the
names of its proposed Coordinating Team to be approved by the Presbytery.
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ARTICLE XXV: PERMANENT JUDICIAL COMMISSION
Section 1. This commission shall be composed of nine (9) members.
Section 2. The Permanent Judicial Commission shall function according to the rules set forth in the
BO Rules of Discipline, Chapters 1-14.
Section 3. The commission shall review proposed Amendments to the Constitution and make
recommendations to Presbytery.
ARTICLE XXVI: PRESBYTERIAN WOMEN COORDINATING TEAM
Section 1. There shall be thirteen (13) members of this committee.
Section 2. The committee shall have responsibility for Presbytery work in the following areas:
a.) Planning and coordinating the work of Presbyterian Women in the Presbytery.
b.) Publicizing the work of Presbyterian Women among the churches of the Presbytery.
c.) Resourcing the work of local Presbyterian Women’s group.
ARTICLE XXVII: REPRESENTATION COMMITTEE
Section 1. There shall be seven (7) members of this committee including persons from each of the
following categories:
a.) Majority male membership
b.) Majority female membership
c.) Racial ethnic male membership
d.) Racial ethnic female membership
e.) Youth male and female membership (BO: G-9.0105)
f.) Person with disabilities
Section 2. This committee shall function according to the rules set forth in the BO: G-11.0302.
ARTICLE XXVIII: SAVANNAH PRESBYTERY FOUNDATION
Section 1. The Savannah Presbytery Foundation, established by Savannah Presbytery, is managed
by a Board of Trustees who are elected by Savannah Presbytery. There are nine (9)
trustees, elected for a three year staggered term and eligible for re-election. Three of the
committee members shall be nominated by the Coordinating Council as follows: a
member of budget subcommittee, the chair of Administration, and the Chair of the
Coordinating Council. The Treasurer of the Presbytery shall be the Treasurer for the
Foundation. The purpose of the Foundation is to establish an endowment, the interest
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from which will be used in perpetuity for the support of Presbyterianism in Savannah
Presbytery, with the additional responsibilities of the financial recommendations for the
presbytery.
Section 2. Five Special Funds have been established:
a.) The Ewell Nelson Fund for small church revitalization
b.) The Abundance Foundation (Charlie & Martha Shedd) to build new churches
c.) Charles Colcock Jones Fund for Special Ministries
d.) The Tom Sears Fund for Racial Ethnic Churches
Section 3. Donations are tax exempt as if made to a church. Tax exempt numbers have been given
by IRS. The numbers are: EIN: 58-1625787 FFN: 58-0067686
ARTICLE XXIX: SELF-DEVELOPMENT OF PEOPLE COMMITTEE
Section 1. There shall be at least nine (9) members of this committee, the majority of whom shall be
racial minority members.
Section 2. The committee shall have responsibility for Presbytery work in the following areas:
a.) Serve as the link between Savannah Presbytery and the Self-Development of People
Committee of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.).
b.) Review proposals submitted by organized groups of disadvantaged person within
our bounds, who are seeking to bring about direct and long-term change in their
communities.
c.) Operate with the guidelines of the National Committee on the Self-Development of
People as to process, procedures, criteria and evaluation.
d.) Serve as interpreter for those wishing to use the SDOP process.
ARTICLE XXX: SOCIAL CONCERNS COMMITTEE
Section 1. There shall be twelve (12) members of this committee.
Section 2. The committee shall have responsibility for Presbytery work in such areas as:
a.) Peacemaking
b.) Hunger
c.) Prison Ministry
d.) Migrant Ministry
e.) Recommend responsible use of Savannah Presbytery's portion of funds received in
the “One Great Hour of Sharing.”
f.) Older Adult Ministry
1. Support Presbyterian Homes through the promotion of funding and partnership
with the churches throughout the Presbytery.
2. Serve as liaison with Swainsboro Presbyterian Apartments.
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3. Propose to Presbytery ministries with older adults.
4. Promote partnership with Presbytery, Synod and General Assembly in ministry
with older adults.
g.) Substance Abuse
1. Promote and coordinate events to combat drug abuse with the Synod of South
Atlantic and the General Assembly.
2. Support churches in their effort to combat drug abuse problems.
h.) In addition, other Social Concerns may be addressed by this committee subject to
the approval of the Presbytery.
ARTICLE XXXI: SWAINSBORO PRESBYTERIAN APARTMENTS BOARD OF
DIRECTORS
Section 1. Savannah Presbytery elects six (6) members of the Board of Directors of the Swainsboro
Presbyterian Apartments in three classes of two persons each. The By-laws state that the
Swainsboro Presbyterian Church elects three members to serve on the Board under the
same terms as those elected by Savannah Presbytery. Board members are eligible to
serve two complete 3-year terms or portions thereof. Further, the by-laws provide a
means by which the Board may elect members when vacancies occur between meetings
of the Presbytery. The by-laws of the apartments also state that the Executive Presbyter
is an ex-officio member of the Board.
Section 2. Savannah Presbytery as the sponsoring Organization of the Swainsboro Presbyterian
Apartments has formed a not-for-profit corporation, the Swainsboro Presbyterian
Housing Corporation, as required by HUD regulations.
Section 3. The directors serve as the official board of the Swainsboro Presbyterian Housing
Corporation.
ARTICLE XXXII: TRUSTEES OF SAVANNAH PRESBYTERY, INC.
Section 1. The Trustees of Savannah Presbytery Inc., shall be ex-officio the chairs of the New
Church Development Committee and the Administration Committee, along with the
Chair of Coordinating Council, the Treasurer of Savannah Presbytery and the Stated
Clerk.
Section 2. The President of the corporation shall be the Chair of the Coordinating Council, the
Treasurer of the Presbytery shall be the Trustee’s Treasurer and the Stated Clerk shall be
the Trustee’s Secretary.
Section 3. The Trustees shall meeting concurrently with the Coordinating Council.
Section 4. The Trustees shall perform such duties and actions as may be delegated to them by the
Presbytery by appropriate resolution duly adopted by the Presbytery.
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(11/02) 23 POLICY
CHAPTER
POLICY 2
ARTICLE XXXIII: PROCEDURAL POLICIES FOR COMMITTEES
Section 1. The Nominations Committee nominated to the Presbytery members of Savannah
Presbytery churches to serve on all committees, except the Nominations Committee
(which are nominated by the Coordinating Council). Those elected by the Nominations
Committee serve a three (3) year term, or a portion thereof, and can be re-elected for an
additional three-year term, not to exceed six concurring years.
Section 2. In addition, the Nominating Committee nominates to the Presbytery three (3) At-Large
Members to serve on the Coordinating Council, one from each district.
Section 3. The Nominations Committee members serve only on that committee.
Section 4. The committees whose chairs sit on the Coordinating Council are:
a.) Administration Committee
b.) Christian Education Committee
c.) Committee on Ministry
d.) Committee on Preparation For Ministry
e.) Laity Committee
f.) M.K. Pentecost Ecology Fund Committee
g.) Mission Committee
h.) New Church Development Committee
i.) Presbyterian Women Coordinating Team
j.) Social Concerns Committee
Section 5. The following committees have no limitations as to service on more than one committee:
a.) Permanent Judicial Commission
b.) Representation
c.) Savannah Presbytery Foundation
d.) Self-Development of People
e.) Swainsboro Board of Directors
f.) Trustees for Savannah Presbytery
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Section 6. All committees shall schedule their own meetings. In order to minimize conflicts of
schedule and facilitate a more efficient use of time for both committee members and
staff, committee meetings shall ordinarily be set a year in advance (in November for the
coming year) in consultation with the Presbytery Executive for purposes of clarity,
coordination and implementation of Presbytery programs and policies.
a.) All committees set dates in November for Presbytery-wide meetings and events to
be offered during the next year. These dates are then sent to all Pastors and Clerks
of Session by January 1.
b.) Six months prior to all Presbytery-wide events, a reminder notice is sent to Pastors
and Clerks of Session, noting the leaders and the purpose of the event.
c.) Three months prior to each event, information is sent concerning the details of the
particular event, including who, what, when, where, etc. and registration forms to
the appropriate people.
d.) One month prior to the event, a reminder notice is mailed to all participants.
Section 7. Any committee that does not follow this process for setting dates in advance shall not
schedule events for the Presbytery during the year without submitting requests to the
Coordinating Council for coordination, advice and approval.
Section 8. Each committee shall pay travel expenses of its members from funds designated for it in
the budget. Travel expenses are to be set annually by the Coordinating Council at the
approved IRS rate.
Section 9. Each committee shall keep complete minutes of its proceedings and a copy shall be
furnished to the Presbytery for its record no later than a week after the meeting.
Section 10. Any committee may select other persons to assist in particular programs but they may not
vote in meetings.
Section 11. Copies of all correspondence between Presbytery committees and churches involving
Presbytery policies, programs, and funding will be sent to Presbytery Office.
Section 12. Correspondence by Presbytery committees with churches will be written by the Chair of
the committee.
Section 13. The responsibility for oversight of particular committees as outlined in the Presbytery
Manual shall be the responsibility of the Coordinating Council.
Section 14. Expectations for Committee Chairs:
a.) Mail Agenda for meeting to Presbytery office. (Needs to be in Presbytery office ten
days prior to meeting for mailing to members.)
b.) Arrive at meeting fifteen minutes prior to meeting. Begin and end on time.
c.) Check with Presbytery office two weeks prior to meeting if you need materials
prepared by the office.
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d.) Encourage your committee to follow Presbytery Priorities. Mail minutes to
members one week after meeting.
e.) Prepare for Meeting: (Normally two hours of preparation are needed for each hour
of the committee meets.) All of this is done prior to meeting.
1. Encourage people to follow through on tasks;
2. Preparation of material for the meeting;
3. Preparation of agenda;
4. Reminder to those who have particular tasks to be ready;
5. Clarify your expectations for reports, assignments, tasks, etc., with the
particular person involved;
f.) Lead your Committee:
1. You should be clear about what you want to see happen.
2. Make sure that preparation has been made by the committee members, and
3. involve your whole committee in decision making
4. Keep the committee moving on its tasks.
g.) Explain and defend your committee actions and recommendations to the
Coordinating Council.
h.) Write out the recommendations for your Committee with the rationale for
recommendations for the Presbytery Handbook.
1. This should be ready for the Council meeting so that material can be put
together in the Presbytery Office immediately after a Council meeting.
2. Separate information and recommendations in your report.
i.) Affirm and clarify recommendations, and respond to questions regarding your
report, at the Presbytery meeting.
1. Encourage your committee members to speak in favor of your
recommendations at the Presbytery meeting.
j.) Say a word of appreciation to your people for a job well done. Encourage them to
continue the good work. Rejoice, give thanks, and sing when you have completed
the task!
ARTICLE XXXIV: REIMBURSEMENT FOR MINISTERS MODERATING SESSIONS IN
CHURCHES WITHOUT PASTORS:
Section 1. Moderators of sessions without pastors shall be appointed by the Committee on Ministry
from among the minister members of Savannah Presbytery. Ministers appointed by the
COM to serve as moderators of sessions shall be reimbursed a minimum of $100 per
month plus mileage at the IRS rate as approved by the Presbytery Council.
a.) Rationale: Because the moderators of session are normally the called and installed
pastor to that church and their expenses are covered in the call and the church is
always responsible for these expenses. The same should hold true when someone
else is serving as moderator. The appointment by the Presbytery through the
Committee on Ministry is to that the session may continue to function. Quite often
the person appointed is at the request of the session.
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ARTICLE XXXV: POLICY FOR PUBLIC ISSUES
Section 1. Announce the topic at one meeting of the Committee and give information to be studied
both for and against the particular topic for study and report at the next committee
meeting.
Section 2. Study the matter at the next stated committee meeting for possible recommendation to
Presbytery.
Section 3. Present the recommendation to members of the Coordinating Council six weeks prior to
Council meeting so that it can be studied thoroughly by the Council. The Coordinating
Council may recommend an affirmative or negative vote should it choose to do so.
Section 4. No public policy issue will be presented to Presbytery until the committee making the
recommendation and the Council have studied the matter thoroughly including both sides
of the issue.
Section 5. Presbytery may be requested to vote on a particular public policy issue after the above
named process has been followed. The Presbytery Handbook will include information on
both sides of the issue, provide the vote by the committee (the numbers of pros and cons)
and the vote by the Council (the number of pros and cons).
a.) Rationale: The purpose is to be fair and give all our people an opportunity to study
and express particular concerns before a vote is taken. Public policy issues are
complex and many times there is not a single clear Christian position. We need the
wisdom of all our people in making decisions that are public policy. The mind of
our Lord is not always clear to us. We do not agree in some areas as to what is the
will of the Lord.
Section 6. When a Presbytery takes a stand on a particular matter, it does not speak for all the
people in the churches who make up Presbytery. It does not speak for the Lord of the
Church. It speaks for itself in light of what it believes the will of the Lord to be in a
particular matter. Presbytery actions do not bind the conscience and do not have the
authority of the Constitution. It is a statement of where the Presbytery stands on a
particular issue at a particular time based on the judgment of that Presbytery meeting. It
is to be taken seriously but not as the infallible Word of the Lord.
ARTICLE XXXVI: CRITERIA FOR APPROVAL OF FUNDING PROJECTS
Section 1. This covers all requests NOT in the regular mission funding pattern. i.e. (unified,
selected, non-budget, special offerings, capital funds).
Section 2. When the Presbytery is asked to approve a project for any particular group all requests go
to the Coordinating Council first for action. Then it is referred to the appropriate group
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in the Presbytery for its study and report. Presbytery will vote on the funding request
presented by the appropriate group. The group requesting funding will be notified of the
action by Savannah Presbytery.
ARTICLE XXXVII: CAMP POLICY OF SAVANNAH PRESBYTERY
Section 1. CAMP MANUAL APPROVED: FEBRUARY 20, 1990
a.) The purpose of all camps shall be to grow in our love for God and neighbor through
worship, Bible study and Christian fellowship.
b.) There will be one adult for every 5-6 campers as per the American Camping
Association. The counselor will accompany campers during all activities.
c.) Counselors will be carefully chosen by the director for their maturity and Christian
commitment, and with references from their pastor and other adults who know them
well.
d.) There will be a qualified lifeguard present whenever there is swimming, canoeing or
boating.
e.) Campers will not be allowed to leave the camp or campus unless accompanied by a
counselor or parent and must have the permission of the director.
f.) The director will be immediately notified of any illness or injury. In the case of
serious illness or injury, parents will be immediately notified.
g.) Visitors will be permitted only on the opening day and closing day in order not to
disrupt the program.
h.) All activities will be strictly supervised.
i.) Campers will be expected to participate in all activities unless excused by the
counselor or director.
j.) Camps shall be open to boys and girls without regard to race.
Section 2. Rationale: These rules have been the basic camp policies for Savannah Presbytery. If the
policies have the approval of the presbytery and are in writing, they can be circulated to
the churches of the presbytery so that all participants will be informed of camp
procedures for Savannah Presbytery. This will ensure that:
a.) Those preparing and administering the camps will have clear guidelines and
instructions for planning and management.
b.) Church Sessions will have clear guidelines to be used in Savannah Presbytery
camping.
c.) Parents and campers will have clear expectations for participation and management.
ARTICLE XXXVIII: MISSION SPENDING PLAN PROCEDURES
Section 1. All chairs of committees are responsible for getting adequate information into the hands
of the budget committee so that intelligent decisions can be made.
a.) MARCH: Budget Committee requests of each Presbytery Committee a projection
of spending needs for next calendar year.
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b.) EARLY APRIL: Presbytery Committees project spending needs for
following calendar year.
c.) LATE APRIL: Coordinating Council’s Budget Committee assembles spending
plan including funds for Presbytery, Synod and General Assembly.
d.) MAY: Savannah Presbytery Mission Spending Plan presented to Presbytery.
e.) JUNE/JULY: Budget Committee determines asking for mission funding from the
churches of Presbytery and communicates these askings to the Sessions.
f.) NOVEMBER/DECEMBER: Churches respond to presbytery with firm
acceptances of dollar amounts for mission funding.
g.) JANUARY: Budget Committee tabulates acceptances and adjust spending plan
if necessary.
h.) FEBRUARY: Presbytery adopts budget.
Section 2. NOTE: Salary changes will be effective January 1st
ARTICLE XXXIX: BUDGET PROCESS GUIDELINES FOR COMMITTEES
Section 1. Process begins in March or April for each committee.
Section 2. Each committee needs:
a.) Current budget (get from February minutes of the previous year for accuracy)
b.) Past budget (get from February meeting, two years ago for accuracy)
Section 3. With the whole committee, agree on the entire budget needed for the coming year.
Smaller subcommittees can work on their particular part of the budget for presentation to
the whole committee.
Section 4. When the whole committee has agreed on the challenge budget for the next year, they
send the copy to the Presbytery office.
Section 5. Presbytery office prepares the budget challenge requests from all the committees plus
Council for the Budget Committee of Council.
Section 6. Budget chair presents the Challenge Budget to Council for its recommendation to the
Presbytery.
Section 7. The Council chair presents the Proposed Challenge Budget for the General Assembly,
Synod, and Presbytery to the May meeting of Savannah Presbytery for its action.
Section 8. Budget askings reflecting the Challenge Budget go to the churches for their response.
Churches respond by October 1, of the current year. If the Challenge Budget responses
are adequate the budget will stay the same. If responses are below expectations then the
committees will be asked to reduce anticipated spending. The budget for the coming year
will be presented at the February meeting for action by the presbytery.
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ARTICLE XL: PAPER ON ACCOUNTABILITY IN THE RELATIONSHIP OF MINISTER
AND CHURCH
Section 1. That the Presbytery require each church calling a pastor to establish a covenant
agreement with him or her before the call can be found in order by the Committee on
Ministry for presentation to the Presbytery for approval. In addition to the requirements
of the BO: G-6.0202, other expectations of the congregation and the congregation's
commitments to the pastor (including the amount of time for vacation and continuing
education as listed in the call), the covenant will also include:
a.) A provision for consultation with the Session related to the involvement of the
pastor in the larger ministry of the church.
b.) A provision calling for consultation and negotiation with the Committee on Ministry
and the Session and the concurrence of the Committee on Ministry, the Session and
the congregation, in the event the pastor should desire to invest a portion of his/her
time in other employment for income on an on-going basis, i.e. teaching, military
service.
c.) A provision that the covenant will be reviewed on an annual basis.
d.) Rationale: A covenant sets forth the mutual obligations and responsibilities of the
pastor and congregation. Rather than listing specific objectives as in a position
description, a covenant sets forth general responsibilities of service to and for one
another. It is descriptive of the life that the pastor and his/her congregation desire to
share together by the grace of God. The terms of the covenant should be negotiated
with the pastor-elect by the Pastor Nominating Committee in consultation with the
Session and the Committee on Ministry.
Section 2. That the Presbytery strongly encourage its churches and pastors to establish covenant
agreements with one another, if such agreements do not presently exist. The Covenant
shall be initiated by the Session, in consultation with the Committee on Ministry, and
approved by the congregation.
a.) Rationale: For the sake of consistency within the Presbytery and for the welfare of
all churches and pastors, those churches with pastors in continuing service are
encouraged to establish covenants now rather than waiting for such time when there
is a change in pastoral leadership. Upon completion, copies of the covenant should
be forwarded to the Committee on Ministry.
Section 3. That the Presbytery strongly encourages each Session to appoint a committee composed
of no less than three persons including both active elders and other members of the
congregation, for the purposes of:
a.) Assisting the pastor in making an annual review and evaluation of his/her ministry
in light of the covenant.
b.) Working with the pastor in setting priorities for ministry in the coming year which
are consistent with the mission goals or felt needs of the congregation served.
c.) Rationale: If a congregation already has a Personnel Committee, this responsibility
may be assigned to it. Annual review and the establishment of mutually agreed
upon priorities for ministry will benefit pastor, Session and congregation by
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defining more clearly the specific objectives for ministry and providing both pastor
and Session with an opportunity for evaluating progress made. The intent is to
affirm ministry that is taking place and to re-direct energies and efforts, if necessary,
in a coordinated direction.
Section 4. That, if necessary, the results of the annual review and evaluation and priority setting
process be submitted to the Presbytery's Committee on Ministry for review and
evaluation. The information contained in the report will be signed by the chair of the
committee responsible for review and the pastor, and the content of the report will be
held in strictest confidence by the Committee on Ministry.
a.) Rationale: This provides the Presbytery with an opportunity to exercise its
responsibility of oversight of pastors and churches. Through this confidential
review, the Committee on Ministry may join with pastors and Sessions in
celebrating the ministry of each. It will also provide a means for the COM to
identify, for the sake of being of service, any emerging difficulties in the
relationship between pastors and their sessions and congregations.
Section 5. That three task forces be appointed by Presbytery to help train church committees and to
facilitate their work. The task forces will be assigned to churches according to the three
districts of the Presbytery.
a.) Rationale: Training is needed to implement these recommendations. Here the
Presbytery exercises its responsibility to resource congregations.
Section 6. That the Presbytery encourage the churches to provide for three months sabbatical at the
end of six years of labor for their pastors as an affirmation of the pastor's years of service
within the congregation.
a.) Rationale: This would mean an additional six weeks of time for the call has one
month of vacation and usually two weeks of continuing education. Such a
sabbatical could renew the dedication and commitment of the pastor with needed
rest. It could strengthen the ministry and witness of the congregation. The
congregation would continue to pay its pastor during these three months of rest.
The pastor would return to the church at the end of three months to continue his/her
ministry.
ARTICLE XLI: POLICY FOR UNSPENT NEW CHURCH DEVELOPMENT BUDGET
Section 1. That Presbytery may authorize the New Church Development Committee to accrue
unspent NCD allocations from the Presbytery Mission Budget.
a.) Rationale: If the New Church Development Committee is under contract to
purchase property where funds are earmarked but not yet spent, said funds need to
be set aside for that future use upon execution of said contract.
ARTICLE XLII: PROCESS FOR VALIDATING GIVING
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Section 1. All requests go to the Coordinating Council, then to Presbytery for implementation.
Section 2. All groups requesting funds need:
a.) Christian Witness in their ministry.
b.) Clarity of purpose, funding, and accountability.
c.) To use at least 75% of income for the work. Not more than 25% is used for
administration and publicity.
d.) Ordinarily, groups will be funded that are accountable to the Presbyterian Church
(U.S.A.). Presbytery Manual states, "minister shall not encourage the use of the
resources of a particular church for para-church groups." (Article IV - Section 4)
e.) Public process in handling of money that includes:
1. Annual audit available for public;
2. Salaries of employees available for public; easy access to information
concerning the receipt and use of money;
3. Accountable to some group for use of funds;
f.) Ordinarily, all requests for validating giving will meet the above criteria when being
recommended to Savannah Presbytery for approval.
Section 3. VALIDATED GIVING CAUSES
a.) GENERAL ASSEMBLY:
1. Missionary Support
2. 1% Fund for Theological Education Witness Offering
3. Christmas Joy Offering
4. One Great Hour of Sharing
5. Peacemaking Offering
6. Medical Benevolence Fund
7. General Assembly General Mission
8. Thank Offering
9. Birthday Offering
10. Least Coin
11. Hunger Offering
12. Extra Commitment Opportunities
b.) SAVANNAH PRESBYTERY:
1. School of the Laity
2. Quitman Home/Operating
3. Mother’s Day Offering
4. Two Cents A Meal Offering
5. The Manna House
6. NCD Offering
7. Second Harvest Food Bank
8. Blessing Box
9. Habitat For Humanity
10. International Seaman’s House
11. Substance Abuse Memorial
12. Ministry to Homeless
13. Presbyterian Homes
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14. Georgia Lodge
15. Daily Bread (Korean)
16. Hospice Satilla
c.) SYNOD:
1. Rabun Gap
2. Mission Haven
3. Synod General Mission
4. Thornwell Children’s Home
5. Presbyterian College
6. Columbia Theological Seminary
7. Columbia Friendship Circle
8. Villa International
ARTICLE XLIII: POLICY FOR PAYING HONORARIA
Section 1. Ordinarily, people from outside Savannah Presbytery shall be paid an amount not to
exceed $200.00 a day, plus expenses.
Section 2. Persons from Savannah Presbytery providing leadership for Savannah Presbytery events
may receive an honorarium not to exceed $100.00 a day, plus expenses. Such honoraria
are given at the discretion of the sponsoring committees and within their own budget
allocations.
Section 3. That each committee will be responsible for following Presbytery procedures with all its
sub-committees.
Section 4. That expenses incurred by people serving committees within Savannah Presbytery will be
paid when the Presbytery process is followed.
Section 5. That when Savannah Presbytery pays the entire cost, or any portion of the cost, of events
attended by people from Savannah Presbytery, the expectation is that knowledge gained
from said event will be shared by the appropriate group(s) within the Presbytery.
ARTICLE XLIV: FEES AND HONORARIA FOR PULPIT SUPPLY
Section 1. The following schedule is suggested for Fees and Honoraria for Pulpit Supply:
a.) For churches of 200 members or less: $75 per appointment plus travel, (in accord
with Federal Government Guidelines) meals and necessary lodging.
b.) For churches of 200 to 500 members: $100 per appointment plus travel, meals and
necessary lodging.
c.) For churches of 500 members and up: $125 per appointment plus travel, meals and
necessary lodging.
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ARTICLE XLV: GUIDELINES FOR RETIRING MINISTERS
Section 1. Inform the congregation of the church which you are leaving that you are no longer
pastor of that church. Therefore, do not discuss matters concerning the life and work of
the congregation with the church staff, officers or members of the church which you last
served. If any of these call you, refer them to the Chair of the Committee On Ministry or
to the Executive Presbyter.
Section 2. Do some things which you enjoy.
Section 3. Always have at least one thing to do for tomorrow; something toward which you may
look forward with anticipation.
Section 4. For the sake of the new minister and spouse, you will need to select a new church for
worship with the consideration that your spouse may wish to change membership to the
other church.
Section 5. Affirm the role of the new pastor. As stated on the Book of Order G-14.0606, return to
your former church only at the invitation of the Moderator of the Session or Clerk of
Session to participate in pastoral functions.
Section 6. Encourage the people in your last church served not to depend on you for pastoral care.
The practical thing to do is to cut the ties for their sake, for the sake of the new pastor and
for you own well being.
Section 7. If you live in the same town where you retire, try to be unavailable for six to twelve
months after you retire and refrain from regular worship in your last church until the new
minister has been in place for at least one year.
Section 8. Move slowly in assuming any new tasks.
Section 9. If you undertake pulpit supply or interim work, be sure that any new tasks you undertake
are clearly spelled out and jointly owned with compensation and your services clearly
defined.
Section 10. Work with the Board of Pensions and with Social Security to understand clearly your
responsibilities to them and their responsibilities to you.
ARTICLE XLVI: REQUIREMENTS FOR THE COMMISSIONING OF LAY PASTORS
Section 1. The purpose of these policies and guidelines is to establish minimum requirements for the
commissioning, supervision, and continuing education of Lay Pastors serving within the
bounds of Savannah Presbytery.
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Section 2. BOOK OF ORDER REQUIREMENTS: The BO (G.14.0800) establishes criteria for the
equipping of Lay Pastors and their ongoing accountability to the Presbytery. These are:
(summary)
a.) To (ordinarily) be an elder in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)
b.) To lead worship, preach the gospel, watch over the people, and provide for their
nurture and care. This may when authorized by Presbytery, include the
administering of the Lord’s Supper and the Sacrament of Baptism; Moderating the
session under supervision and with Presbytery’s approval, having a voice and vote
in the meetings of presbytery, and performing the service of Christian marriage
under specified conditions.
c.) To serve only the specific congregation/charge as approved by the Presbytery for
the specified time of the particular Commission.
d.) To receive training as approved by the presbytery in the areas of Bible, Reformed
Theology, Sacraments, Presbyterian polity, preaching, leading worship, pastoral
care and teaching.
e.) To be examined by the appropriate committee of presbytery as to personal faith,
motives for seeking the commission, and the areas of instruction as mentioned
above.
f.) To be under the supervision of a minister of the Word and Sacrament.
g.) The commission will be valid for a period of up to three years and can be renewed
at the end of the period or terminated by presbytery at any time.
Section 3. Requirements And Guidelines Of Savannah Presbytery:
a.) In order to be faithful to the requirements of the Book of Order with regard to
Commissioned Lay Pastors (CLP), and to provide a means of supervision and
accountability, the following guidelines have been established:
1. The committee responsible for the training, supervision, examination and
review of Commissioned Lay Pastors is the Committee on Ministry (COM)
along with and through its Sub-committee on Commissioned Lay Pastors
(SCCLP).
2. Anyone wishing to be commissioned as a Lay Pastor in Savannah Presbytery
must first be approved and recommended as a candidate for commissioning by
the session of his/her local congregation. A letter from the Clerk of Session to
the Chair of the COM will be considered as the first step in the application
process. Once this letter is received by the COM, a contact will be made with
the candidate by the chair of the Sub-committee for Commissioned Lay
Pastors and requirements will be explained. Care shall be taken at the
beginning of the process to explain the following:
a. Commissioning is done by the Presbytery to a particular congregation or
ministry, for a specific period of time which is subject to renewal by the
Presbytery.
b. There is no such thing as a "general" commissioning, by which a CLP can
move from one call to another performing pastoral functions. (redundancy
intentional)
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c. There is no guarantee that once having completed the requirements for
CLP, there will be a Call or ministry to which one will be commissioned
to serve by the presbytery.
3. Candidates will be required to have psychological testing through the Fraser
Center. These tests will be used as part of the assessment for suitability as a
Commissioned Lay Pastor.
4. Candidates for commissioning will be examined by the SCCLP regarding
personal faith, motives for seeking the commission and the areas of instruction
mentioned in section 5.
5. Ordinarily, the length of preparation for CLPs will be two to three years. A
CLP candidate must be a graduate of Savannah Presbytery’s J. Richard Bass
School of the Laity, or have evidence of equivalency in education from an
approved seminary or previous presbytery. Additional courses of instruction
to those covered through the School of the Laity will also be required. These
courses will be structured and/or supervised by the SCCLP.
6. The following classes, or their equivalencies will be required by the School of
the Laity:
a. Introduction to the Bible
b. Old Testament
c. New Testament
d. Introduction to Reformed Theology
e. History Mission and Polity
f. Introduction to Ministry
g. Christian Ethics
7. In addition to the above courses and in order to meet BO requirements, the
following additional courses, or their equivalencies will be required and
provided through the SCCLP:
a. Preaching
b. Pastoral Care
c. Polity
d. Special Services (field tutorial)
8. Candidates will be expected to pay the cost of the courses. Any equivalencies
(through seminaries or continuing education workshops) must be approved in
advance by the SCCLP.
9. It is expected that a CLP will seek out and attend a least one continuing
education course/seminar during each year of his/her active commission.
10. The CLP program may be amended by the COM in accordance with the BO
whenever circumstances should warrant.
ARTICLE XLVII: GENERAL ASSEMBLY COMMISSIONERS
Section 1. Reporting Responsibilities of Commissioners to General Assembly and Synod
a.) The Commissioners to the General Assembly and to the Synod of the South Atlantic
shall report to Presbytery in person, or in writing, concerning their attendance and
activity at the meeting following their attendance at the General Assembly and
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Synod. The commissioners shall consult with each other and divide the areas of
their report.
Section 2. Guidelines for electing Minister and Elder Commissioners to General Assembly
a.) Commissioners to the General Assembly and alternates shall be elected at the
October Stated Meeting of the previous year and shall be notified by the Stated
Clerk of their election.
b.) The nomination and election of commissioners to the General Assembly shall be
subject to the following provisions:
1. Clergy
a. Any individual, session or committee of Savannah Presbytery may
endorse a clergy member of the presbytery as commissioner to General
Assembly by September 1 of the preceding year. This endorsement shall
be made on the form provided by the Nominating Committee of Savannah
Presbytery.
b. Each person endorsed shall complete the Questionnaire for General
Assembly Candidates and return it to the Nominating Committee by
September 1 of the preceding year.
c. In addition to the endorsements and submitted information, the following
factors shall be taken into consideration by the Nominating Committee.
i.) Has the minister been a member of Savannah Presbytery for at
least 24 months?
ii.) Does the minister live within the geographical bounds of Savannah
Presbytery and has an active relationship been sustained with the
presbytery over the past year?
iii.) Has the minister served as a commissioner to General Assembly
within the past seven years?
iv.) Has the minister attended a majority of the stated meetings of
Savannah Presbytery over the previous two years?
v.) Is the minister actively serving on a committee of Savannah
Presbytery?
d. The Nominating Committee will nominate three ministers for each
commissioner position available to Savannah Presbytery. The committee
shall nominate clergy from among those eligible to serve and is not limited
to the names of candidates endorsed.
e. The list of 5 major issues facing the church today as completed by each
candidate shall be published in the handbook for the presbytery meeting.
f. Nominations may be made from the floor if the candidate has agreed to
serve if elected.
g. Voting shall be by secret ballot.
h. The candidate receiving the largest number of votes shall be the
commissioner. The candidate receiving the second highest number of
votes shall be the alternate commissioner.
i. The alternate from the previous year shall automatically be considered by
the Nominating Committee for the position of commissioner. The
Nominating Committee is not bound to nominate them simply because
they were an alternate.
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2. Elder
a. Any individual, session or committee of Savannah Presbytery may
endorse an elder in the presbytery as commissioner to General Assembly
by September 1 of the preceding year. This endorsement shall be made on
the form provided by the Nominating Committee of Savannah Presbytery.
b. Each person endorsed shall complete the Questionnaire for General
Assembly Candidates and return it to the Nominating Committee by
September 1 of the preceding year.
c. In addition to the endorsements and submitted information, the following
factors shall be taken into consideration by the Nominating Committee.
i.) Does the elder serve on a committee of Savannah Presbytery?
ii.) Has the elder been active in the life of his or her church?
iii.) Has the church where the elder serves had an elder commissioner
to General Assembly within the past seven years?
iv.) Has the elder attended a stated meeting of Savannah Presbytery in
the previous two years?
d. The Nominating Committee will nominate three elders for each
commissioner position available to Savannah Presbytery. The committee
shall nominate elders from among all eligible to serve and is not limited to
the names of candidates endorsed.
e. The list of 5 major issues facing the church today as completed by each
candidate shall be published in the handbook for the presbytery meeting.
f. Nominations may be made from the floor if the candidate has agreed to
serve if elected.
g. Voting shall be by secret ballot.
h. The candidate receiving the largest number of votes shall be the
commissioner. The candidate receiving the second highest number of
votes shall be the alternate commissioner.
i. The alternate from the previous year shall automatically be considered by
the Nominating Committee for the position of commissioner. The
Nominating Committee is not bound to nominate them simply because
they were an alternate.
Savannah Presbytery Manual
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CHAPTER
PERSONNEL 3
ARTICLE XLVIII: POLICIES FOR SAVANNAH PRESBYTERY SUPPORT STAFF
Section 1. It was agreed that the Presbytery Executive has primary responsibility for supervision of
the office staff. He/she will consult with the Administration Committee for appropriate
guidance and support.
Section 2. It was recommended that the following personnel policies for staff employed by Council
be implemented.
a.) Vacation:
1. One year of employment: Two weeks
2. Two years of employment: Three weeks
3. Three or more years of employment: Four weeks
4. Vacation carryover allows accrual of one year’s vacation.
b.) Holidays:
1. Normal holidays will be taken as designated by the Executive in consultation
with the Coordinating Council. New Year's, Martin Luther King's Birthday,
Good Friday, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving (2
days) and Christmas (24-31).
c.) Sick Leave - The Presbytery Executive will monitor sick leave and grant it in
accordance with common sense policy.
d.) Major Medical/Pension Benefits - The office staff will ordinarily be enrolled in the
denomination’s major medical insurance pension plan following a six-month period
of probational employment.
e.) Termination - If the termination of staff becomes necessary, those having been
employed by presbytery for at least one year will receive termination pay equal to
two weeks salary.
ARTICLE XLIX: WORK OF THE OFFICE STAFF FOR SAVANNAH PRESBYTERY
Section 1. Priorities:
a.) Office Work of Presbytery Executive, Stated Clerk and Treasurer
Office Work for Presbytery Meetings and Presbytery Council
b.) Support Work as assigned for Council and all Committees of the Presbytery
c.) Support Work for Presbytery At Large
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Section 2. THE STAFF IS EAGER TO SERVE THE PRESBYTERY IN THE MOST EFFICIENT
WAY POSSIBLE. IT WILL HELP THE STAFF RESPOND TO NEEDS AND DO
THE WORK REQUIRED FOR AN EFFECTIVE PROGRAM FOR SAVANNAH
PRESBYTERY, IF THE FOLLOWING ARE NOTED:
a.) All requests for work from Presbytery Office Staff requires approval of Presbytery
Executive before implementation.
b.) The staff normally needs about two weeks notice, and more time if possible, when
there is a need to prepare material or do a mailing for committees from the
Presbytery Office.
c.) All requests for help through the Presbytery office, should come through the
Committee Chair. For example, if there are several subcommittees, then the
subcommittee chair, would need to request the help through the Committee chair.
Work of Staff Associates will be coordinated through the committees with the
Presbytery Executive.
d.) Vouchers for committees need to be authorized and promptly sent to Presbytery
Office for payment.
ARTICLE L: JOB DESCRIPTION: OFFICE MANAGER
Section 1. HOURS: Monday - Thursday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM. Friday - 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM.
Section 2. SALARY: As determined by the Administration Committee in consultation with the
Executive Presbyter.
Section 3. Purpose
a.) To assist in carrying out the mission and program of the Presbytery by serving as
Office Administrator, coordinating the secretarial work of the Executive Presbyter
and the Presbytery Office, and the Stated Clerk and by fulfilling other
administrative tasks delegated by the Executive Presbyter, to include maintaining all
journals, ledgers, financial, legal, statistical and computer records of financial
transactions of the Presbytery in accordance with sound accounting principles and
good business practices for the Presbytery.
Section 4. Qualifications
a.) A vital Christian faith and a commitment to the mission and work of the presbytery.
b.) Knowledge of the structure of the Presbyterian Church (USA) or willingness to learn.
c.) Supervisory, communications, relational, secretarial, and computer skills.
d.) Respect for confidentiality.
Section 5. Accountability
a.) Accountable to the Executive Presbyter as the immediate supervisor. The line of
accountability for concern or grievance is from the Executive Presbyter, to the
Administration Committee and finally to the Presbytery Council.
Section 6. Responsibilities
a.) In the absence of the Executive Presbyter, the Office Manager will assume
responsibility for the day-to-day operation of the Presbytery office. The Office
Savannah Presbytery Manual
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Manager is responsible for supervision and coordination of the appointed staff in
common administrative meetings and retreats, such as Council Meetings, Presbytery
Meetings and the Annual Planning Retreat.
1. Coordinate and/or provide administrative support and secretarial work for the
Executive Presbyter.
2. Supervise appointed staff and maintain personnel folder.
3. Supervise a common filing system, including computer back-ups for the
Presbytery office.
b.) Process incoming mail for the Executive Presbyter.
c.) To coordinate the implementation of the Pastor Peer Group Lunches.
d.) Maintain the master calendar for the Presbytery.
e.) Assist the executive staff in carrying out the presbytery's mission and program,
particularly in the following areas:
1. Provide secretarial service for the Chair of the Mission Committee as
requested to include assisting with the Agenda and mailing it with notice of
meetings. Produce the report for presbytery. Maintain a file of the minutes.
2. Provide secretarial service for the Chair of the Nominations Committee as
requested to include assisting with the Agenda and mailing it with notice of
meetings. Produce the report for presbytery. Maintain a file of the minutes.
3. Provide secretarial service for the Chair of the Administrative Committee as
requested to include assisting with the Agenda and mailing it with notice of
meetings. Produce the report for presbytery. Maintain a file of the minutes.
4. Provide secretarial service for the Chair the New Church Development
Committee as requested to include assisting with the Agenda and mailing it
with notice of meetings. Produce the report for presbytery. Maintain a file of
the minutes.
5. Provide administrative support for Presbytery task forces, (i.e. vision, search,
capital campaign, Manual revision, etc.) as requested.
6. Provide support services for programmatic events planned and/or sponsored
by Savannah Presbytery which includes but is not limited to registration,
publicity, tracking, child care, local arrangements, and handouts, in
consultation with the Executive Presbyter and Staff Associates.
f.) Purchase and maintain an inventory of supplies for the office, postage, janitorial and
hospitality.
g.) Keep abreast of all contracts for maintenance on office equipment.
h.) Give Supervision to the work of the Administrative Assistant as the Administrative
Assistant provides support services to the Staff Associates (Laity, Ecology and
Christian Education).
Section 7. Responsibilities under the supervision and direction of the Stated Clerk:
a.) Serve as recording clerk for the Coordinating Council and prepare the report for
Presbytery. Maintain the minutes.
b.) Coordinate and implement Annual Planning Retreat for Committees represented on
the Coordinating Council.
c.) Serve as recording clerk for the Presbytery Meetings. Maintain the official minutes
of Presbytery.
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d.) Record revisions of the Savannah Presbytery Manual and Policies as approved by
Presbytery and publish in the Directory (Who’s Who)
e.) Supervise the production of Minutes, Reports, Council Packets, Presbytery Packets,
and the Annual Directory (Who’s Who).
f.) Recording clerk for the Secretary of the Committee on Ministry and Candidates.
Provide secretarial service for the Chair as required and produce the report for
presbytery. Maintain a file of the minutes.
g.) Maintain and report annually to the General Assembly the statistics of ministers in
the Presbytery. Transfer records of ministers to their receiving or dismissing
presbytery. Notify Administrative Commissions of their election to install the
minister, and receive the Minutes of the Commission for the Stated Clerk.
h.) Input annual statistical reports from churches on the computer and send to General
Assembly.
Section 8. Under the direction of the Treasurer:
a.) Receive, deposit and post all receipts.
b.) Prepare and have vouchers authorized for all payments.
c.) Prepare, process and distribute checks for all payables.
d.) Maintain a General Ledger and all necessary journals and files.
e.) Prepare the Treasurer's reports and special financial reports as required.
f.) Assist the Executive Presbyter and Treasurer, with adequate financial information
for budget control and preparation.
g.) Maintain journals and ledgers on all restricted and special accounts and backup
records on all financial transactions.
h.) Provide reasonable security for all financial records including computer back up of
all files.
i.) Process payroll checks, record all payments in payroll register, reconcile payroll to
general ledger. Prepare information for IRS forms, 941 quarterly statements, W-2,
and 1099 annual statements. Keep payroll records in accordance with IRS standards
including the appropriate forms and distribution of monthly payroll taxes.
j.) Reconcile all bank statements monthly and distribute selected funds accordingly.
k.) Inform insurance company of equipment and serial numbers and file claims losses
and workers compensation.
l.) Help employees in their submission of claims to the Board of Pensions.
m.) Prepare Schedules and Exhibits for Auditors prior to commencement of audits.
n.) Provide secretarial service as assigned.
Section 9. Relationships - Maintain accountability as indicated above and seek good peer
relationships with all other appointed and elected staff, and shall assist and greet in a
cordial and professional manner members of Presbytery, its working units and the general
public.
Section 10. Evaluation - An annual evaluation of performance and a compensation review will be
held in keeping with personnel policies.
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ARTICLE LI: JOB DESCRIPTION: ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT
Section 1. HOURS: Monday - Thursday 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM.Friday - 9:00 AM - 1:00 PM.
Section 2. SALARY: As determined by the Administration Committee in consultation with the
Executive Presbyter.
Section 3. Purpose - To assist in carrying out the mission and program of the Presbytery by serving
as secretary for programmatic concerns, providing for initial contact and referral of all
telephone calls to the Presbytery office and to provide secretarial services.
Section 4. Qualifications
a.) Knowledge of the mission funding system of the Presbyterian Church (USA).
b.) Accounting, computer as well as computer database and relational skills.
c.) Ability to work in collegial relationship with other staff members.
d.) Respect for confidentiality.
Section 5. Accountability - Accountable to the Executive Presbyter for overall supervision, and
accountable to the Office Manager for support and supervision in the operation of the
Presbytery office. The line of accountability for concern or grievance is from the Office
Manager, to the Executive Presbyter, to the Administration Committee, and finally to the
Presbytery Council.
Section 6. Responsibilities
a.) General
b.) Receive and refer all visitors
c.) Support service for the Staff Associates for Laity, Ecology and Christian Education.
d.) Maintain the Data Base and Mailing Lists.
e.) To answer and promptly refer all telephone calls to the responsible person.
f.) Hospitality for the committee meetings.
g.) Type and compile the Annual Directory (Who’s Who).
h.) Process outgoing daily mail and bulk mailings.
i.) Assist in common administrative meetings and retreats such as: Council meetings,
Presbytery Meetings and an Annual Planning Retreat.
j.) Assist in common programmatic events.
k.) Assist in preparation of special projects using various computer software programs
such as Print Shop, Excel, Access, Word, Power Point, and other graphics programs.
l.) Under the direction of Office Manager, maintain and update the Presbytery
informational material.
m.) Secretarial service as assigned.
n.) Pick up mail, open, date stamp and distribute.
o.) Produce Newsletter at least six times a year.
Section 7. Under the direction of the Staff Associate for Laity and Ecology and under the
supervision of the Office Manager.
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a.) Provide support services for programmatic events planned and/or sponsored by
Savannah Presbytery, which includes but is not limited to registration, publicity,
tracking, childcare, local arrangements, and handouts.
b.) Recording clerk for the Laity Committee and the M.K. Pentecost Ecology Fund
Committee. Provide secretarial service for the chair as required to include assisting
with the Agenda and mailing it with notice of meetings. Produce the report for
presbytery. Maintain a file of the minutes.
Section 8. Under the direction of the Staff Associate for Christian Education and under the
supervision of the Office Manager:
a.) Recording clerk for the Christian Education Committee. Provide secretarial service
for the chair as required to include assisting with the Agenda and mailing it with
notice of meetings. Produce the report for presbytery. Maintain a file of the
minutes.
b.) Provide support services for Summer Camp and other programmatic events planned
and/or sponsored by Savannah Presbytery, which includes but is not limited to
registration, publicity, tracking, childcare, local arrangements, and handouts.
Section 9. Under the direction of the Office Manager, assist in the overall operation of the
Presbytery office:
a.) Serve as purchasing agent for the office in consultation with the Office Manager
with major items requiring the approval of the Executive Presbyter.
b.) Maintain file of legal documentation of church building plans and loans.
Section 10. Relationships - Maintain accountability as indicated above and seek good relationships
with all other appointed and elected staff and shall assist and greet in a cordial and
professional manner members of Presbytery, its working units, and the general public.
Section 11. Evaluation - An annual review of performance and compensation will be held in keeping
with personnel policies
ARTICLE LII: JOB DESCRIPTION: STAFF ASSOCIATE FOR SMALL CHURCHES
(Clergyperson)
Section 1. Presbytery Manual states that, "the Staff Associate(s) will be under the supervision of the
Executive Presbyter. Employment of Associate(s) will be in agreement with Presbytery
policy and procedures. The Executive Presbyter will be responsible for supervising
Associate(s) to insure responsibilities are fulfilled. The Executive Presbyter may assign
other duties and responsibilities to Staff Associate(s)." Article X, Section 1.
Section 2. POSITION:
a.) Part-time: one fourth - ten hours a week.
b.) Salary: determined by budget.
c.) Travel expenses will be paid at a rate comparable to the Federal Government
Guidelines.
Section 3. DUTIES:
Savannah Presbytery Manual
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a.) Personalize the work of Presbytery by meeting regularly with pastors, elders, and
churches, with 150 members or less.
b.) Meet monthly with Presbytery Executive for planning and coordination.
c.) Staff the Mission Committee.
d.) Implement Presbytery policies, procedures and plans with smaller congregations.
e.) Plan events for smaller congregations as needed.
f.) Help with carrying out details for planning smaller congregations.
g.) Evaluation twice a year in June and December.
ARTICLE LIII: JOB DESCRIPTION: STAFF ASSOCIATE FOR RACIAL/ETHNIC
MINISTRY
Section 1. Presbytery Manual states that, "the Staff Associate(s) will be under the supervision of the
Executive Presbyter. Employment of Associate(s) will be in agreement with Presbytery
policy and procedures. The Executive Presbyter will be responsible for supervising
Associate(s) to insure responsibilities are fulfilled. The Executive Presbyter may assign
other duties and responsibilities to Staff Associate(s)." Article X, Section 1.
Section 2. POSITION:
a.) Part-time: one fourth - ten hours a week.
b.) Salary: determined by budget.
c.) Travel expenses will be paid at a rate comparable to the Federal Government
Guidelines.
Section 3. DUTIES:
a.) Personalize the work of the Presbytery in the churches.
b.) Work with all congregations for ministry with Racial/Ethnic Concerns.
c.) Meet monthly with Presbytery Executive for planning and coordination.
d.) Staff the Social Concerns Committee and implement plans approved by Presbytery.
e.) Serve as advising member of New Church Development Committee.
f.) Evaluation twice a year in June and December.
ARTICLE LIV: JOB DESCRIPTION: STAFF ASSOCIATE FOR THE LAITY (Layperson)
Section 1. Presbytery Manual states that, "the Staff Associate(s) will be under the supervision of the
Executive Presbyter. Employment of Associate(s) will be in agreement with Presbytery
policy and procedures. The Executive Presbyter will be responsible for supervising
Associate(s) to insure responsibilities are fulfilled. The Executive Presbyter may assign
other duties and responsibilities to Staff Associate(s)." Article X, Section 1.
Section 2. POSITION:
a.) Part-time: one fourth - ten hours a week.
b.) Salary: determined by budget.
c.) Travel expenses will be paid at a rate comparable to the Federal Government
Guidelines.
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Section 3. DUTIES:
a.) Personalize the work of the Presbytery with the Laity.
b.) Meet monthly with Presbytery Executive for planning, coordination, and
personalization.
c.) Promote empowerment of the Laity.
d.) Staff the Laity Committee and help implement plans approved by Presbytery.
e.) Plan the six events for the School of the Laity in consultation with Presbytery
Executive and the Laity Committee.
f.) Implement Presbytery policy and procedures with the Laity Committee.
g.) Evaluation twice a year in June and December.
ARTICLE LV: JOB DESCRIPTION: STAFF ASSOCIATE FOR CAMPUS MINISTRY
Section 1. Presbytery Manual states that, "the Staff Associate(s) will be under the supervision of the
Executive Presbyter. Employment of Associate(s) will be in agreement with Presbytery
policy and procedures. The Executive Presbyter will be responsible for supervising
Associate(s) to insure responsibilities are fulfilled. The Executive Presbyter may assign
other duties and responsibilities to Staff Associate(s)." Article X, Section 1.
Section 2. POSITION:
a.) Part-time: one fourth - ten hours a week.
b.) Salary: determined by budget.
c.) Travel expenses will be paid at a rate comparable to the Federal Government
Guidelines.
Section 3. DUTIES:
a.) Personalize the work of Presbytery by meeting regularly with pastors, elders, and
churches.
b.) Meet monthly with Presbytery Executive for planning and coordination.
c.) Report to the Mission Committee.
d.) Implement Presbytery policies, procedures, and plans for campus ministry.
e.) Plan events for campus personnel as helpful.
f.) Help with carrying out details for planning for campus ministry.
g.) Build partnership with First Presbyterian Church in Statesboro.
h.) Evaluation twice a year in June and December.
ARTICLE LVI: JOB DESCRIPTION: STAFF ASSOCIATE FOR CHRISTIAN EDUCATION
Section 1. Presbytery Manual states that, "the Staff Associate(s) will be under the supervision of the
Executive Presbyter. Employment of Associate(s) will be in agreement with Presbytery
policy and procedures. The Executive Presbyter will be responsible for supervising
Associate(s) to insure responsibilities are fulfilled. The Executive Presbyter may assign
other duties and responsibilities to Staff Associate(s)." Article X, Section 1.
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Section 2. POSITION:
a.) Part-time: one half - twenty hours a week.
b.) Salary: determined by budget.
c.) Travel expenses will be paid at a rate comparable to the Federal Government
Guidelines.
Section 3. DUTIES:
a.) Personalize the work of Presbytery by meeting with the Christian Education leaders
and committees in particular churches.
b.) Meet monthly with Presbytery Executive for planning and coordination.
c.) Staff the Christian Education Committee.
d.) Supervise and implement summer camps and conferences.
e.) Coordinate the youth work according to Presbytery policies and plans.
f.) Evaluation twice a year in June and December.
ARTICLE LVII: JOB DESCRIPTION: STAFF ASSOCIATE FOR ECOLOGY
Section 1. The Staff Associate will be under the supervision of the M.K. Pentecost Ecology Fund
Committee” rather that under the supervision of the Executive Presbyter.
Section 2. POSITION:
a.) Part-time: one fourth – ten hours a week.
b.) Salary to be determined by budget of the M. K. Pentecost Fund & Administered thru
the Presbytery.
c.) Travel expenses will be paid at the Presbytery approved rate.
d.) Expenses paid by the M.K. Pentecost Ecology Fund Committee.
Section 3. DUTIES:
a.) Personalize the work of the Presbytery by meeting with the M.K. Pentecost Ecology
Fund Committee.
b.) Meet monthly with the Presbytery Executive for planning and coordination.
c.) Staff the M.K. Pentecost Ecology Fund Committee and provide administrative
support.
d.) Review grant requests and visit grant sites on behalf of and as requested by the
M.K. Pentecost Ecology Fund Committee.
e.) Provide copies of grant requests to the members of the committee two weeks prior
to the committee’s May meetings.
f.) Provide an annual report to the Presbyterian Church USA Foundation.
g.) Publicize the work of the M.K. Pentecost Fund Committee/Foundation to the
Presbytery and community.
h.) Prepare information for people/churches to contribute to the M.K. Pentecost
Ecology Fund Committee.
i.) Lead the committee toward consideration of new ventures in addition to grants.
j.) Implement Presbytery policies and procedures with the M.K. Pentecost Ecology
Fund Committee.
k.) Evaluation twice a year in June and December.
Savannah Presbytery Manual
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Stated Meeting Revision Dates
OPERATIONS
ARTICLE I: NAME Section 2. ___________________ Section 2. ___________________
Section 1. ___________________ ARTICLE XIII: FINANCIAL ARTICLE XXIII: NEW CHURCH
Section 2. ___________________ MANAGEMENT DEVELOPMENT COMMITTEE
ARTICLE II: FINAL AUTHORITY Section 1. ___________________ Section 1. ___________________
Section 1. ___________________ Section 2. ___________________ Section 2. ___________________
ARTICLE III: MEMBERSHIP OF Section 3. ___________________ ARTICLE XXIV: NOMINATIONS
SAVANNAH PRESBYTERY Section 4. ___________________ COMMITTEE
Section 1. ___________________ Section 5. ___________________ Section 1. ___________________
ARTICLE IV: MINISTERS Section 6. ___________________ Section 2. ___________________
Section 1. ___________________ Section 7. ___________________ Section 3. ___________________
Section 2. ___________________ Section 8. ___________________ Section 4. ___________________
Section 3. ___________________ ARTICLE XIV: GENERAL PLAN OF Section 5. ___________________
Section 4. ___02/25/02________ OPERATION Section 6. ___________________
Section 5. ___________________ Section 1. ___________________ Section 7. ___________________
Section 6. ___________________ Section 2. ___________________ Section 8. ___________________
ARTICLE V: MEETINGS Section 3. ___________________ Section 9. ___________________
Section 1. ___________________ Section 4. ___________________ Section 10. ___________________
Section 2. ___________________ Section 5. ___________________. Section 11. ___________________
Section 3. ___________________ Section 6. ___________________ Section 12. ___________________
Section 4. ___________________ Section 7. _10/23/02__________ ARTICLE XXV: PERMANENT JUDICIAL
Section 5. ___________________ ARTICLE XV: COORDINATING COUNCIL COMMISSION
Section 6. ___________________ Section 1. ___________________ Section 1. ___________________
Section 7. ___________________ Section 2. ___________________ Section 2. ___________________
Section 8. ___________________ Section 3. ___________________ Section 3. ___________________
Section 9. ___________________ Section 4. ___________________ ARTICLE XXVI: PRESBYTERIAN
Section 10. ___________________ Section 5. ___________________ WOMEN COORDINATING TEAM
Section 11. 02/25/03_(a1)10/22/02 Section 6. ___________________ Section 1. ___________________
Section 12. ___________________ Section 7. ___________________ Section 2. ___________________
ARTICLE VI: OFFICERS Section 8. (a)10/22/03_(e.) 05/20/03 ARTICLE XXVII: REPRESENTATION
Section 1. ___________________ Section 9. ___________________ COMMITTEE
Section 2. ___________________ ARTICLE XVI: ADMINISTRATION Section 1. ___________________
Section 3. ___________________ COMMITTEE Section 2. ___________________
ARTICLE VII: MODERATOR Section 1. ___________________ ARTICLE XXVIII: SAVANNAH
Section 1. ___________________ Section 2. ___________________ PRESBYTERY FOUNDATION
Section 2. _10/23/01__________ ARTICLE XVII: CHRISTIAN Section 1. ___________________
Section 3. ___________________ EDUCATION COMMITTEE Section 2. ___________________
Section 4. ___________________ Section 1. ___________________ Section 3. ___________________
Section 5. ___________________ Section 2. ___________________ ARTICLE XXIX: SELF-DEVELOPMENT
Section 6. ___________________ ARTICLE XVIII: COMMITTEE ON OF PEOPLE COMMITTEE
ARTICLE VIII: GOVERNMENT MINISTRY Section 1. ___________________.
Section 1. ___________________. Section 1. ___________________ Section 2. ___________________
Section 2. ___________________ Section 2. ___________________ ARTICLE XXX: SOCIAL CONCERNS
Section 3. ___________________ Section 3. ___________________ COMMITTEE
ARTICLE IX: EXECUTIVE PRESBYTER Section 4. ___________________ Section 1. ___________________
Section 1. ___________________ Section 5. ___________________ Section 2. _(e.) 05/20/03_____
Section 2. ___________________ Section 6. ___________________ ARTICLE XXXI: SWAINSBORO
Section 3. ___________________ Section 7. ___________________ PRESBYTERIAN APARTMENTS BOARD
Section 4. ___________________ ARTICLE XIX: COMMITTEE ON OF DIRECTORS
Section 5. ___________________ PREPARATION FOR MINISTRY Section 1. ___________________
ARTICLE X: STAFF ASSOCIATES Section 1. __05/20/03_________ Section 2. ___________________
Section 1. ___10/22/02 __ Section 2. ___________________ Section 3. ___________________
Section 2. ___________________ Section 3. __02/25/03_________ ARTICLE XXXII: TRUSTEES OF
Section 3. ___05/20/03 __ ARTICLE XX: LAITY COMMITTEE SAVANNAH PRESBYTERY, INC.
ARTICLE XI: STATED Section 1. __10/22/02 __ Section 1. ___________________.
CLERK/RECORDING CLERK Section 2. ___________________ Section 2. ___________________
Section 1. ___________________ ARTICLE XXI: M.K. PENTECOST Section 3. ___________________
ECOLOGY FUND COMMITTEE 10/02/02 Section 4. ___________________
Section 2. ___________________ Section 1. ___________________
Section 3. ___________________ Section 2. _(d.) – 10/22/02 .
ARTICLE XII: TREASURER ARTICLE XXII: MISSION COMMITTEE
Section 1. __10/23/01_________ Section 1. ___________________
Savannah Presbytery Manual
(11/02) 48 REVISION DATES
POLICY
ARTICLE XXXIII: PROCEDURAL ARTICLE XXXVII: AMP POLICY OF ARTICLE XLIII: POLICY FOR PAYING
POLICIES FOR COMMITTEES SAVANNAH PRESBYTERY HONORARIA
Section 1. ___________________ Section 1. ___________________ Section 1. ___________________
Section 2. ___________________ Section 2. ___________________ Section 2. ___________________
Section 3. ___________________ ARTICLE XXXVIII: MISSION Section 3. ___________________
Section 4. ___________________ SPENDING PLAN PROCEDURES Section 4. ___________________
Section 5. ___________________ Section 1. ___________________ Section 5. ___________________
Section 6. ___________________ Section 2. ___________________ ARTICLE XLIV: FEES AND HONORARIA
Section 7. ___________________ ARTICLE XXXIX: BUDGET FOR PULPIT SUPPLY
Section 8. ___________________ PROCESS GUIDELINES FOR Section 1. ___________________
Section 9. ___________________ COMMITTEES ARTICLE XLV: GUIDELINES FOR
Section 10. ___________________ Section 1. ___________________ RETIRING MINISTERS
Section 11. ___________________ Section 2. ___________________ Section 1. ___________________
Section 12. ___________________ Section 3. ___________________ Section 2. ___________________
Section 13. ___________________ Section 4. ___________________ Section 3. ___________________
Section 14. ___________________ Section 5. ___________________ Section 4. ___________________
ARTICLE XXXIV: REIMBURSEMENT FOR Section 6. ___________________ Section 5. ___________________
MINISTERS MODERATING SESSIONS IN Section 7. ___________________ Section 6. ___________________
CHURCHES WITHOUT PASTORS: Section 8. ___________________ Section 7. ___________________
Section 1. __10/23/01_________ ARTICLE XL: PAPER ON Section 8. ___________________
ARTICLE XXXV: POLICY FOR PUBLIC ACCOUNTABILITY IN THE Section 9. ___________________
ISSUES RELATIONSHIP OF MINISTER AND Section 10. ___________________
Section 1. ___________________ CHURCH ARTICLE XLVI: REQUIREMENTS FOR
Section 2. ___________________ Section 1. ___________________ THE COMMISSIONING OF LAY PASTORS
Section 3. ___________________ Section 2. ___________________ Section 1. ___________________
Section 4. ___________________. Section 3. ___________________ Section 2. ___________________
Section 5. ___________________ Section 4. ___________________ Section 3. ___________________
Section 6. ___________________ Section 5. ___________________ ARTICLE XLVII: GENERAL ASSEMBLY
ARTICLE XXXVI: CRITERIA FOR Section 6. ___________________ COMMISSIONERS
APPROVAL OF FUNDING PROJECTS ARTICLE XLI: POLICY FOR UNSPENT Section 1. ___________________
Section 1. ___________________ NEW CHURCH DEVELOPMENT BUDGET Section 2. ___02/25/03 ____
Section 2. ___________________ Section 1. ___________________
ARTICLE XLII: PROCESS FOR
VALIDATING GIVING
Section 1. ___________________
Section 2. ___________________
Section 3. _(b)10/22/02 _______
PERSONNEL
ARTICLE XLVIII: POLICIES FOR ARTICLE LI: JOB DESCRIPTION: ARTICLE LIV: JOB DESCRIPTION:
SAVANNAH PRESBYTERY SUPPORT STAFF ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT STAFF ASSOCIATE FOR THE LAITY
Section 1. ___________________ Section 1. ADM – 09/10/02_____ (Layperson)
Section 2. (a4)10/22/02 (d)10/22/01 Section 2. ___________________ Section 1. ___________________
ARTICLE XLIX: WORK OF THE OFFICE Section 3. ADM – 09/10/02_____ Section 2. ___________________
STAFF FOR SAVANNAH PRESBYTERY Section 4. ADM – 09/10/02_____ Section 3. ___________________
Section 1. ___________________ Section 5. ADM – 09/10/02_____ ARTICLE LV: JOB DESCRIPTION: STAFF
Section 2. ___________________ Section 6. ADM – 09/10/02_____ ASSOCIATE FOR CAMPUS MINISTRY
ARTICLE L: JOB DESCRIPTION: Section 7. ___________________ Section 1. ___________________
OFFICE MANAGER Section 8. ___________________ Section 2. ___________________
Section 1. ADM – 09/10/02 Section 9. ___________________ Section 3. ___________________
Section 2. ___________________ Section 10. ___________________ ARTICLE LVI: JOB DESCRIPTION:
Section 3. ___________________ Section 11. ___________________ STAFF ASSOCIATE FOR CHRISTIAN
Section 4. ADM – 09/10/02 ARTICLE LII: JOB DESCRIPTION: STAFF EDUCATION
Section 5. ___________________ ASSOCIATE FOR SMALL CHURCHES Section 1. ___________________
Section 6. ___________________ (Clergyperson) Section 2. ___________________
Section 7. ___________________ Section 1. ___________________ Section 3. ___________________
Section 8. ___________________ Section 2. ___________________ ARTICLE LVII: JOB DESCRIPTION: STAFF
Section 9. ___________________ Section 3. ___________________ ASSOCIATE FOR ECOLOGY 05/23/00
Section 10. ___________________ ARTICLE LIII: JOB DESCRIPTION: Section 1. ___10/22/02_________
STAFF ASSOCIATE FOR RACIAL/ETHNIC Section 2. ___________________
MINISTRY Section 3. ___________________
Section 1. ___________________
Section 2. ___________________
Section 3. ___________________
Savannah Presbytery Manual
(11/02) 49 REVISION DATES