Handbook
The following resources have been compiled primarily for use by rostered leaders of our synod.
- “Annual Reports” describes how to file the annual congregational report (a.k.a. “parochial report”, Forms A & C) and the rostered leader’s confidential report to the synod bishop. LINKS to both are included on this page.
- “The Clergy-Communicant Privilege in Pennsylvania” explains the Commonwealth laws regarding confidential information and mandatory reporting for clergy.
- “Congregational Audits” suggests practices for conducting annual financial audits.
- “Congregational Records” and Pastoral Care Files require special care. This resource offers guidance on good management techniques.
- “Constitutions for Congregations and the Need for Continuous Revisions“
- 2011 Amendments to the Model Constitution for Congregations
- “Criteria for Continuation of On-Leave-from-Call Status“
- “Ecumenical Relations” describes the ELCA’s ecumenical relationships, and implications for “Full Communion” and “Interim Eucharistic Sharing.”
- “The First Call: Preparing for Successful Ministry” prepares a first call pastor, the calling congregation, and the synod for a successful transition into ministry together.
- “First Call Theological Education” describes our synod’s practices/expectations regarding theological education for rostered leaders in the first three years of their first call.
- “Pastoral Care and HIPPA” offers clarification of how the HIPAA laws and pastoral care do and don’t intersect. This information provided by Lutheran Services in America.
- “Intentional Interim Ministry: What it Is and What it is Not“
- “Leave for Pastors” describes this synod’s recommendations and policies regarding sabbatical leave, vacation, family leave (maternity/paternity), and holidays.
- “Sabbatical Leave Policy” was adopted by Synod Council in January 2011 and gives further explanation and guidelines for a pastoral sabbatical.
- The “Normative Ethical Practices for Ordained Pastors of the Upper Susquehanna Synod” was adopted by the Upper Susquehanna Synod Assembly in 1996.
- The “Supply Pastors” resource describes how pastors may arrange for Sunday morning supply preachers in the event they are not able to be present for worship.
- “Transition into a New Call” highlights six areas for consideration for a newly called pastor and a congregation.
Other Resources
- “About the ELCA Call Process, from a Synod Staff Member’s Perspective” offers information and advice to rostered leaders about to complete their Rostered Leader Profiles. Also available as PDF file here.
- “Assessing Your Congregation’s Culture” is a tool to assist you in learning more about the culture of your congregation-things perhaps not made evident in the Congregation Profile.
