There are four different assemblies that govern ministry within the SRC: consistory, classis, regional synod, and General Synod.
Oversees a congregation
- Guides the ministry of the church to meet needs in the community and the world
- Calls ministers to serve the church
- Provides worship for the spiritual benefit of God’s people
Elders and deacons elected by the congregation and the congregation’s installed minister(s)
Oversees consistories and ministers within its bounds
- Ordains, installs, and oversees ministers; commissions and oversees commissioned pastors; every SRC minister of Word and sacrament or commissioned pastor is under the care of a classis
- Receives new congregations and organizes them as local churches
- Oversees students who are studying to become ministers in the SRC
Ministers who are members of the classis and elder delegates from churches in the classis
Oversees classes in a region
- Oversees interests and concerns of the classes within its bounds
- Creates programs to further the work of the gospel and denomination in the region
Minister and elder delegates from the classes
Oversees ministry of the denomination
- Sets the direction and tone for denominational ministry
- Exercises authority in all matters relating to denominational programs and policies
Elders and ministers representing each classis and regional synod