Introducing: The Pastor’s Handbook

The specific circumstances of pastors of independent evangelical churches differ greatly, but each pastor shares a desire to fulfil his pastoral duties in accordance with scripture and to God's glory.

The Pastor’s Handbook aims to provide practical guidance and assistance in the conduct of regular pastoral responsibilities and the public services of a local church.

It is particularly designed to equip pastors in the early days of their ministry, and to help elders and other church leaders who may be called upon to conduct services, sometimes unexpectedly.

There have been various printed editions of the FIEC Pastor’s Handbook over the years. These are now out of print, so we have decided to revise and update the different topics in an accessible, digital format.

Each handbook topic is divided into three parts:

• Basic principles setting out the biblical foundation for what is being done and the purpose of the service, meeting, activity, or occasion.
• Practical matters providing suggestions about preparation for, and the conduct of, the service, meeting, activity, or occasion.
• A suggested framework providing templates which can be adapted, adjusted, and personalised where appropriate and as required.

We are not saying there is only one way things should be done. Each topic in the handbook is intended to be a flexible friend, capable of being modified as required.

We pray this material will provide help to pastors, elders, and church leaders as they seek to do everything "in a fitting and orderly way" (1 Corinthians 14:40).

We plan to cover topics including weddings, funerals (including suicide and infant loss), thanksgiving for children, elders and deacons meetings, welcoming new members, and more.

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