Commission on Ministry
The Commission on Ministry (COM) of the Presbytery of the Highlands of New Jersey exists to support, nurture, and oversee the life and ministry of both congregations and those called to serve them. Rooted in the Reformed understanding that ministry is a shared calling of the whole church, the COM seeks to foster healthy relationships among ministers, congregations, and the presbytery, ensuring that Christ’s mission is carried out with faithfulness, integrity, and care.
To this end, the COM provides guidance, accountability, and pastoral support for Ministers of Word and Sacrament, Certified Christian Educators, and Commissioned Ruling Elders, as well as the congregations of the presbytery. Acting with the authority of an Administrative Commission (G-3.0307), the COM is entrusted with responsibilities that include oversight of pastoral relationships, support during times of transition, examination and reception of ministers, and the encouragement of peace and unity within congregations.
Commission on Ministry Documents, Policies, Resource Sheets and Guidelines.
Pastor Relationships
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05/27/26
Family and Medical Leave Policy – updated 2026
Family and Medical Leave Policy - updated 2026
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09/03/25
2026 BOP requirements and recommendations
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10/24/23
Involuntary Dissolution of Installed Pastoral Relationship
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05/24/21
Separation Ethics Agreement
Separation Ethics Agreement/Covenant
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10/30/23
Dissolution Agreement for Pastors, Session and Congregations
What is a dissolution agreement?
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05/24/21
Separation Ethics Agreement
Separation Ethics Agreement/Covenant
Ordination and Installation Documents
Sexual Misconduct, Ethical Standards, Criminal Background Checks Policies
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03/11/25
Retired Pastors/Retirement Policy
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03/19/24
Pastoral Relationships in the Presbytery of the Highlands
Pastoral Relationships for the Presbytery of the Highlands
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10/30/23
Dissolution Agreement for Pastors, Session and Congregations
What is a dissolution agreement?
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05/24/21
Validated Ministry Policy
Validated Ministry Policy
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05/24/21
Background Check Application
Background Check Application for the Presbytery of the Highlands of New Jersey
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03/10/21
Criminal Background Check Policy
Criminal Background Check Policy for the Presbytery of the Highlands of New Jersey
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03/03/21
Sexual Misconduct Policy – Highlands Presbytery
Revised and review Sexual Misconduct Policy Highlands Presbytery
Interim/Covenant Supply Pastor Resources and Policies
Retirement Documents and Resources
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03/11/25
Retired Pastors/Retirement Policy
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10/30/23
Dissolution Agreement for Pastors, Session and Congregations
What is a dissolution agreement?
Commissioned Ruling Elders Policy
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03/10/26
Commissioned Ruling Elder Policy May 2024
Validated Ministry Policy and Documents
Pastor Search Process Information
Terms of Call Online Form/Worksheet
The 2026 Terms of Call Worksheet is now available online—with an updated and easy-to-use format! Clear instructions are included to guide you through the process.
This year, instead of completing the traditional worksheet, congregations can submit the Pastor’s Terms of Call using a convenient online form.
We encourage all congregations to complete and submit their annual Terms of Call through this new online form. Thank you for your cooperation as we move to this streamlined process, and for your continued partnership in supporting pastoral leadership.




