Following the example of the early church, we believe that decisions should be made by gathering people together to discern the will of God. Because the whole church cannot meet together at one time and place to make decisions, governing bodies made of those who hold an office within the church carry out the work of the church at various levels.
Assemblies of the RCofP
There are four different assemblies that govern ministry within the Reformed Church of Pakistan: consistory, classis, regional synod, and General Synod.
Consistory
Oversees a congregation
Key responsibilities:
- Guides the ministry of the church to meet needs in the community and the world
- Calls ministers to serve the church
- Provides worship for the spiritual benefit of God’s people
Who can serve in this assembly?
Elders and deacons elected by the congregation and the congregation’s installed minister(s)
Classis
Oversees consistories and ministers within its bounds
Key responsibilities:
- Ordains, installs, and oversees ministers; commissions and oversees commissioned pastors; every RCofP minister of Word and sacrament or commissioned pastor is under the care of a classis
- Receives new congregations and organizes them as local churches
- Oversees students who are studying to become ministers in the RCofP
Who can serve in this assembly?
Ministers who are members of the classis and elder delegates from churches in the classis
Regional Synod
Oversees classes in a region
Key responsibilities:
- Oversees interests and concerns of the classes within its bounds
- Creates programs to further the work of the gospel and denomination in the region
Who can serve in this assembly?
Minister and elder delegates from the classes
General Synod
Oversees ministry of the denomination
Key responsibilities:
- Sets the direction and tone for denominational ministry
- Exercises authority in all matters relating to denominational programs and policies
Who can serve in this assembly?
Elders and ministers representing each classis and regional synod