The "Pastor-Parish Relations Committee (PPRC)" is truly a Staff-Parish Relations Committee (SPRC) because the committee relates to all staff, both bishop-appointed staff and employed staff....The S/PPRC has some of the same functions of a personnel office or Human Resources department in other organizations.
The S/PPRC has primary responsibility to work with staff so that the mission of the church is realized. The S/PPRC should have a clear understanding of your local church's mission and vision, built upon the mission of the wider Church. Clear understanding of your church and prayerful listening to God's direction will guide both the development of job descriptions and the assessment of staff.
The S/PPRC works with individuals and groups, including:
- the lead pastor
- all ordained leaders-both elders and deacons-appointed by the bishop
- the lay staff, full time and part time
- the congregation (individually and corporately)
- candidates for licensed and ordained ministry
- the community outside the walls of your building
- the district superintendent
the United Methodist conference and general church staff.
Specific tasks for the S/PPRC include:
- explaining the nature and function of ministry to the staff and the congregation
- conferring with the congregation and the staff/pastor about ministry direction
- assessing the ministry of the congregation and the staff/pastor at least annually
- conferring and consulting with the district superintendent
- supporting lifelong learning for all staff (continuing education)
- identifying and supporting individuals from the congregation whom God seems to be calling for ordained ministry
- making recommendations regarding compensation, travel, benefits and housing to the church council
- recommending needed staff positions and developing written job descriptions and titles for associate pastors and staff
