Does every presbytery have a CLP program?
No. They are not required to commission lay pastors. Presbyteries that have many ministers, educators and others may not need CLPs.

Are lay pastors automatically authorized for all of the pastoral functions when they are commissioned?
No. Each presbytery decides what the particular church needs and authorizes the CLP for the functions needed. The authorization is only to carry out those functions for the particular church or churches to which the CLP is commissioned.

How does the presbytery decide?
A presbytery consults with the session of the church involved and considers whether the work to which the elder is commissioned requires such authorization and whether the particular lay pastor is ready, able and willing to take on these activities.

How long does the training take?
That depends on the presbytery and the person. Some programs extend over a period of several years with participants meeting once or twice a month.

How long does a CLP serve a church?
A commission may be for as long as 3 years and then must be either renewed or it expires and the elder may no longer serve CLP functions.

Is the CLP paid?
Some CLPs may be financially able to serve as volunteers, but most are paid in proportion to the time and effort expended in service they provide. Their expenses (travel, telephone, etc.) are usually reimbursed as well. Read more information about compensation and the IRS.