Employment vs Spiritual Appointment guide
Churches need to consider the distinctions between employing a pastor and a spiritual appointment, covering legal, procedural, and practical considerations. An employee is hired for services in exchange for payment, with indicators such as a written contract, position description, superannuation contributions, tax withholding, and leave entitlements. In contrast, a spiritual appointment is a covenantal relationship grounded in a call from God, confirmed by the church, with indicators like a Letter of Call, payment of a living allowance, and the absence of a position description, allowing the pastor autonomy in their ministry.
A document has been prepared to assist Baptist Churches in NSW and ACT to consider these distinctions. We recommend the Church Leadership carefully assess the above differences to determine the best fit for your ministry situation and then support this decision with required documentation including updating policies and procedures. This is essential to safeguard both parties, ensure mutual understanding, and adhere to applicable laws.
A Pastor who is spiritually appointed does not have the same legal entitlements and protections as a Pastor who is an employee. The Baptist Association recommends that there are entitlements and protections in place for Pastors who are employees as well as spiritual appointments as outlined in our annual Recommendations Guidelines.
