Vacancy Process
For assistance prior to calling a Minister you will find it helpful to download and read the document below 

Movement of Ministers
in particular Appendices 3,4 and 5.

Preparing for an Induction Service

Ordination and Induction services are the responsibility of the Synod. However, the Synod will expect the Interim Moderator to act for it in making the arrangements.

 

The Interim Moderator will involve the incoming minister and representatives of the pastorate in planning the service. It is common to allow the new minister to invite a friend/colleague to preach, but it should be someone in whom the Synod has confidence, and who will recognise that the ‘Charge’ is being preached to the pastorate as much as to the minister.

 

The normal order of events will be as follows:

1.       Interim Moderator consults new minister and church secretary(ies) about possible dates for the service (allowing adequate time for concurrence of ‘calling’ and ‘sending’ Synods).

2.     Interim Moderator consults Synod Moderator, designated preacher, new minister and pastorate about date of service. When this is agreed Interim Moderator informs all above of date, time and venue. The Pastoral Advocate(s) should also be informed.

3.     Small group under chairmanship of the Interim Moderator plans service – the service should include the features set out in the URC service book, including Schedule C which may be read as a statement or responsively. This item is normally led by a representative of Synod.

    An attempt should be made to include men and women, ordained
    and lay, young and old in the leadership of the service, and 
    appropriate special items of music or drama are welcome.

4.     A first draft of the service is sent to the Synod Moderator for comments. Their comments should be discussed with them and any necessary changes made.

5.     The final form of the order should be sent in advance to all those taking part, together with travel and parking directions. The Elders should arrange hospitality for those travelling a long way, and expenses for the visiting preacher.

6.     The Synod Moderator will preside at the service; if unavailable s/he will appoint a deputy.

July 2008