What is a Commissioned Lay Pastor?
The commissioned lay pastor is an elder of the Presbyterian Church (USA), who is granted a local commission by the presbytery to lead worship and preach the gospel, watch over the people, and provide for their nurture and service. This commission is valid only in one or more congregations designated by the presbytery. (G-14.0800) A commissioned lay pastor is an elder selected and trained by a presbytery and authorized by the Committee on Ministry to serve in a local congregation as a temporary supply in lieu of a Minister of the Word and Sacraments. Lay Preachers or Pastors may serve to fill pulpits while ministers are on vacation or are for some other reason unable to fulfill pastoral duties. They may also fill the pulpit when a church is between pastors, but do not serve as interim pastors. With approval of presbytery, LPs may be commissioned (may serve without commission) to serve a small church that cannot secure a Minister of the Word and Sacraments. LPs are limited however, in th
