Commissioned Ruling Elders

Who Can Become a Commissioned Ruling Elder?

To be considered for authorization as a commissioned ruling elder (CRE), a candidate must have been elected, examined, and ordained as a ruling elder in the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.) for at least two years unless otherwise approved by the Commissioned Ruling Elder Committee (CREC).

What Can a Commissioned Ruling Elder Do?

A commissioned ruling elder is permitted to moderate the session, to administer the Sacraments, to officiate at marriages within the congregation to which they have been commissioned per the Book of Order G-2.1001. CREs are permitted to administer the Sacrament of the Lord’s Supper when authorized by the Commissioned Ruling Elder Committee and when invited by the session, in a church in which they are not commissioned to serve.

How Do I Become a Commissioned Ruling Elder?

Presbytery of the James works with CRE candidates to utilize Union Presbyterian Seminary’s Pathways to Learning and Leadership program, specifically designed to prepare those interested in becoming CREs.

Candidates may enroll directly in the Pathways program here.

Other approved programs may also be considered. Once a commissioned ruling elder is commissioned to their limited pastoral service, they shall have an agreement that specifies the term of service, which shall not exceed 12 months but may be renewed.

For complete guidance, refer to the POJ CRE Handbook.

Why Become a Commissioned Ruling Elder?

Many become commissioned ruling elders because they sense a pastoral call but are not pursuing seminary or ordination as a Minister of Word and Sacrament. They want to serve more deeply in a particular congregation or ministry (often small, rural, or underserved) by preaching, leading worship, and offering pastoral care, usually in a flexible, part‑time, or bi‑vocational way.

Others pursue CRE training because they are already experienced ruling elders who feel called to expand their leadership with additional preparation, supervision, and accountability through the presbytery. In many presbyteries, CREs help provide needed pastoral leadership by moderating sessions, administering the sacraments in specific settings, and partnering in a shared model of ministry alongside teaching elders and presbytery committees.

CRE Handbook

The Presbytery of the James' Commissioned Ruling Elder Handbook is your comprehensive reference for all questions, procedures and related resources for those looking to become a CRE or who already serve in that role.

Still Have Questions?

If you still have questions not answered on this page or in the CRE Handbook, please reach out to us at com@presbyteryofthejames.org, and we will get back to you as soon as we can!