Associates in Ministry
Partners in ministry, these leaders are commissioned for ministry to equip and enable others in their Christian lives. Theologically trained lay ministers, they serve in congregations and other ministries of the ELCA.
The partnerships provided by those who serve on this lay roster are of deep value to the church. Associates in ministry frequently share in a collegial staff ministry and focus in areas such as learning ministries, family ministries, youth, administration, volunteer ministry, music, ministry coordination or parish nursing.
Some associates in ministry serve in staff positions in congregations where the position includes more than one area of specialty. An associate in ministry may also be called by a synod to a non-congregational setting such as a social service agency, counseling center, college or seminary faculty, or synod staff.
Many congregations benefit from the life experience and skills of commissioned associates in ministry in the ELCA. They provide leadership and support for specific program ministries of the whole people of God in serving the mission and ministry needs of the church.