Walking Together in the Call Process

The calling of a pastor represents a valuable partnership between God, the congregation, the synod and the ELCA. Each member of the partnership is enriched when the call process results in a good match between pastor and congregation. The total mission of the church is furthered when each member of the partnership is honored, respected and fulfills its appropriate role in the process.

Synod Call Process

The Northeastern Iowa Synod Constitution outlines the process for calling rostered persons.

We seek to follow a process which builds on trust and openness, relies on good communication, and results in a call which is pleasing to God. Throughout this process the congregation holds the authority to call a pastor on the roster of the ELCA. The congregation, the pastors, and the office of the bishop must follow the constitutions of the congregation, synod and ELCA throughout this process. For the sake of an orderly process and good communication, the congregation is encouraged to follow the guidelines of the synod.

When Your Pastor Resigns
Download the complete Constitutional Guidelines for Calling a Pastor in the Northeastern Iowa Synod for how to proceed when your pastor resigns.

ELCA Call Process

The call process on the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America website supports those involved in call process work—rostered leaders, congregations, church-related organizations and synods.

This interactive page includes a searchable churchwide database that allows ministry sites to publish their vacancies, and rostered leaders to have their mobility information readily accessible to synod bishops.

The “Getting Started” section will guide you on how to use the page. If you need additional help, you may contact our synod office at 319-352-1414. You can also visit https://www.elca.org/resources/education-and-support/for-ministry/call-process