Terms of Reference
As approved and amended at congregational meetings through February 22, 2025
These terms outline how ministry teams and key roles at Parkwood operate under the authority of Session.
Operational Principles
- Each ministry team is governed under these general operational principles.
- Each team reports directly to Session and its work is subject to the authority and approval of Session.
- The Minister is a member of each team by virtue of office (ex-officio), without vote.
- Any person attending Parkwood is eligible to belong to a ministry team, except Policy and Planning.
- Members are appointed to teams initially for two years and may continue subsequently.
- Each team selects a Team Leader who will serve as Team Leader for two years and may continue for subsequent two-year terms.
- Each team will include at least one member of Session.
- Each team will designate one of its Session members to be its representative to report to Session.
- Each team is to select its own secretary.
- Teams are empowered by Session to fill vacancies to keep the team at maximum strength; such new members are ratified by Session.
- Each team will present its budget request for the following year to the Treasurer by November 1 of each year (or as updated in budget timelines).
- Teams should seek volunteers to help with short-term tasks.
- Teams may arrange their own meeting times and locations.
- Where required and appropriate, teams should coordinate their activities with other teams.
- Members wishing to step back from their team should submit their intention to Session through the team representative.
- Members can be requested to step back by Session resolution and such members will be informed of Session's decision by their team representative.
Reporting & Communication
- Each team is under the guidance of Session.
- When required, a ministry team seeks the support and guidance of Session and/or the Minister in fulfilling its responsibilities.
- Each team reports significant activities to Session through the representative elder on the team.
- Each team makes recommendations to Session on issues which normally require Session approval.
- Teams should implement approved activities without further specific approvals from Session unless there is a significant change in the approved proposal.
- Teams should endeavour to schedule activities to avoid conflicts with other team or congregational activities.
- Each team shall provide contact information for the Team Leader to the Clerk of Session and the Administrative Assistant.
Ministry Teams
Each team serves a specific area of congregational life. Expand a team to see its purpose, membership, responsibilities, and functions.
Key Roles
These roles support Session and the congregation in governance, record-keeping, finances, and pastoral care.
