7.9 Tasks of the ministries

7.9 Tasks of the ministries The high demands on the priestly ministers are derived from Malachi 2: 7: “For the lips of a priest should keep knowledge, and people should seek the law from his mouth; for he is the messenger of the Lord of hosts.” The tasks of the priestly ministries also include conducting divine services, performing acts of blessing and funerals, proclaiming God’s word, and pro- viding pastoral care to the members of the congregation. Bishop The word “Bishop” (Greek: episkopos) means “overseer”. The Bishop is the direct co-worker of the Apostle. In oneness with the Apostle, he instructs and cares for the ministers, and takes charge of special tasks in pastoral care. District Elder4 As a rule, a District Elder is the rector of a district and thus respon- sible for several congregations in both a spiritual and organisational respect. He ensures that the gospel is proclaimed in its purity in the congregations. He also sees to it that the necessary ministerial gifts are available in the congregations. He adopts guests into the congre- gation and leads preparatory discussions with those who are to re- ceive the sacrament of Holy Sealing. The District Elder provides pas- toral care to the congregational rectors and their families. District Evangelist The District Evangelist works at the side of the District Elder and supports him in the fulfilment of his tasks. Shepherd The special focus of this ministry is to care for and preserve the con- gregation. The Shepherd also performs leadership tasks. As a rule, he is also appointed as the congregation’s rector. 4 In earlier times there was also the ministry of Community Elder. 303 7 Ministry Evangelist The special accent of the Evangelist ministry (Greek: euangelistes = “messenger of joy”) lies in the clear, understandable proclamation of the word. As a rule the Evangelist also performs leadership tasks. Priest The Priest proclaims the word of God and cares for the souls within the congregation. This includes being close to the members, visiting them regularly, reinforcing their faith, and promoting their know- ledge. The Priest stands by them, comforts them, and prays with them. He makes regular visits to the sick and celebrates Holy Com- munion with them. He also pursues those whose ties with the con- gregation are waning. In many congregations Priests also take on the function of rector. 7.9.2 The diaconal ministry The diaconal ministry is discharged by Deacons and Sub-deacons. The word “Deacon” has its source in the Greek and signifies “servant”. Deacons help in various ways in the congregation. It is also their task to support the Priests in their pastoral care work. Today no one is ordained into the Sub-deacon ministry anymore. This ministry corresponds to the Deacon ministry in nature.