What does it take to be an Associate Pastor? 

You have to be called, and of course have an anointing, but your vision need to be subject to the vision of your Senior Pastor so that it can complement and not compete.  Defining the role of the Associate Pastor is not hard but it can be very complicated.  The reason being is the vision of every senior Pastor is different so what you learn in one church may not apply at another.

Personal Qualities:

It is imperative that you understand who you are and who you are in Christ.  Lack of confidence will cause those that watch to lack confidence in you.  As you show confidence in God and your Pastor,  other will have confidence in you.

You need to be self-movitated, a team player, relate to others well of all ages.  You need to have vision for the ministry within and beyond the congregation.

You are the first line of defense.  If the congreation is coming to you (as we learned with Jethro) then solutions will be coming from you.  Vision should come from you to the Pastor to make the church a better place.  Remember your vision will not work against the Pastor if you are in the will of God. 

Accountability:

Yes, you are accountable to everyone.  WHY?  Everyone is watching you hold the title you are a leader!  You must consider every action and how that will reflect on first God, second the Pastor and finally the church.

Specific Responsibilities:

1.)  Assist the Pastor with preaching, visitation and significant life events (births, marriages, deaths, etc.)

2.)  Oversee specific departments

3.)  Serves as a communicator between congregation and Pastor

4.)  Stand in for the Pastor (at home or away speaking engagements)

5.)  Responsible for the administrative needs of the church

6.) Training and development of Associate Ministers and ministers