Spring 1995

Christian Educators have access to the presbytery through the Committee on Ministry (COM) (G-11.0503; G-14.0705). Specifically included are persons employed by churches in the Presbytery of Florida who have at least a BA degree in Christian Education or in a related field, and/or five or more years paid church related Christian education experience.

The COM will assist local congregations in the care of Christian Educators by:

• Establishing salary and benefit guidelines for Christian Educators.
• Reviewing terms of employment on an annual basis.
• Granting all employed Christian Educators a voice at presbytery meetings.
• Recommending, and when possible, providing churches searching for a Christian educator with a Certified Christian Educator to serve their committee as an "Educator Vacancy Consultant."
• Checking references, when requested, for any Christian educator a church is considering hiring.
• Having a new educator give a faith statement at the stated presbytery meeting following their arrival to their positions and encouraging all Christian Educators to participate in Presbytery meetings and activities.
• Receiving, as an advisory member, an educator appointed to the Committee on Ministry by the Presbytery Council.
• Including educators (and their spouses) in support retreats or groups.
• Providing support and meditation in conflict situations.
• Reviewing the Christian educator's position at the time of church Triennial visits.
• Offering guidance to currently employed educators who seek certification and, when appropriate, information about employment possibilities.
• Providing a service of recognition at presbytery when an educator successfully completes the certification process (G-11.0103)
• Encouraging currently employed Christian Educators to seek certification and encouraging churches seeking educators to consider Certified Educators.
• Providing a service of recognition at presbytery when an educator retires.
• Presbytery of Florida sponsors an Educator Peer Support Group that encourages Educators to come together to talk about vocational issues and support each other in their ministry.