This committee make it a point to offer practical support to the church's pastors and their families. This type of practical support includes:

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• Maintenance: Some committees take an active role in assisting with the maintenance of the parsonage (a home provided by the church to the pastor and his family), the pastor's vehicle and property that is shared between the clergy person and the congregation.

• Hospitality: The committee may provide hospitality to visiting clergy and church officials.

• Emergency care: If a pastor's family faces an emergency, such as a serious accident or illness; or pastors a committee, may provide needed assistance in the form of preparing meals, assisting with housekeeping, or providing childcare.

• Scheduling celebration: Some churches make a point of scheduling events that honor church leadership. These may include birthday celebrations, as well as, recognition on important holidays. The committee may take the lead in planning these events, ensuring that the pastor will be able to attend, and that the celebrations are in line with her preferences.

 

Congregational Mediation

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A committee takes on the role of mediating between clergy and congregation. This group of people can act as a buffer between a congregation and its pastor, particularly in areas of potential dispute, such as compensation, working hours and leadership style. Typically, the role of the committee is to provide support, listening to the pastor's concerns, and providing resources, as needed. The committee may also liaise with other Congregational officials, particularly, if there is some conflict within the church community over a clergy person's actions or behavior.

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Advice and Counsel Pastoral Council or advisory board. Unlike a board of directors, which oversees the administration of the faith community, including facilities management, personnel issues and denominational relations, a pastoral council specifically acts as a resource to the pastor, as he makes difficult decisions. In situations in which there is conflict within the church; between the pastor and the denomination; or, there are significant issues that require discernment, this committee provides advice and support during that process.