208.13

To approve or disapprove in writing requests from the pastor and the local church board to have or to employ any unpaid associate pastors or paid local associates (such as associate pastors; ministers or directors of Christian education, children, youth, adult, music, childcare/schools {birth through secondary}, etc.). The primary criteria for the district superintendent’s decisions to approve or disapprove, in concept, the hiring of paid staff will be the willingness and ability of the church to meet its local, district, and general obligations. It is the pastor’s responsibility to screen and select pastoral associates. However, the district superintendent shall have the right to disapprove the nominee. (129.27, 160–160.8)