Calling all current Pastoral Charge Supervisors (PCS) and those who may be interested! We are updating our PCS database and would appreciate it if you could take a moment to fill out the form below.
For those interested, what is a Pastoral Charge Supervisor? What do they do?
In The United Church of Canada, a Pastoral Charge Supervisor is a person appointed by the Regional Council to provide oversight and support to a pastoral charge (community of faith) when there is no settled or appointed minister, or in other situations where supervision is needed.
A Pastoral Charge Supervisor is responsible for:
- Supporting ministry personnel serving the pastoral charge.
- Providing general supervision and oversight of the congregation’s life and work.
- Ensuring leadership is in place by making sure a chairperson is elected for the governing body, trustees, and congregational meetings.
- Ensuring that sacraments (such as Communion and Baptism) and membership matters are handled according to United Church policies.
- Attending or being available for governing body meetings and offering guidance during times of transition.
- Reporting to the Regional Council on the overall health and status of the pastoral charge.
When Is a Supervisor Appointed?A Pastoral Charge Supervisor is commonly appointed when:
- A congregation is between ministers.
- A minister is on sabbatical, parental leave, medical leave, or other extended leave.
- A student, candidate, or supply minister is serving the congregation.
- The Regional Council determines additional oversight would be beneficial.
What a Supervisor Is Not
A Pastoral Charge Supervisor is not the congregation’s minister and does not usually provide all regular pastoral care, worship leadership, or administrative functions. Rather, they act as a guide, mentor, liaison, and accountable presence, helping ensure the congregation remains healthy and connected to the wider church during times of transition.
For ECORC, the practical role is often one of supporting the governing body, ensuring church policies are followed, being available for consultation, and helping the congregation navigate change until permanent ministry leadership is in place.