(For Session read Parish Council where applicable)
The relation of the Session to the minister should not be on the basis of law but rather on that of mutual understanding and trust and a common desire to do everything possible for the furtherance of the Kingdom of God. But as there is sometimes confusion in the Church regarding their respective spheres of authority, it will be helpful for all concerned to define the sphere of each.
1) As the minister is not responsible to the Session for the discharge of his or her ministerial functions, but to the Presbytery, the Session has no authority to pass directives concerning the manner in which the minister shall do his or her work, or to discipline the minister but if the minister is neglectful of his or her duties, then the Session by petition may approach the Presbytery.
2) A minister’s name should be on the communion roll of his or her congregation, but in view of the above, this does not mean that the minister is under the discipline of the Session.
1) The times and places of public worship are fixed by the Session but the actual conduct of public worship is the sole responsibility of the minister, and the minister may do this in whatsoever manner he or she considers best, but always in accordance with the settled usages and practices of the Church. Should any question arise as to whether worship is being so conducted, the decision is the function of the Presbytery.
2) While the choir in common with other organisations is subject to the oversight of the Session, the selection of hymns and the musical part of the service are under the control of the minister. More general questions such as the introduction of a new hymnary or the robing of the choir should be decided by the Session. In all matters where responsibility rests on the minister, it is wise and courteous for the minister to take the Session into his or her confidence.
The church is solely at the disposal of the minister for all religious purposes. No one may occupy the pulpit or conduct a service in the church without the consent of the minister or the Interim Moderator. This means that where a change of pulpits has been arranged for a service, no resolution of approval by the Session is necessary, the Session is simply advised. This courtesy should not be overlooked. Where other uses of the church are involved, the Session makes the decision.