Synod Authorized Ministry

Synod Authorized Ministers (SAMs) are laypeople authorized by the Synod bishop, with consent of the congregation, and in consultation with the Synod Council to provide ministry in specific settings where a rostered minister is not available. SAMs are temporary, location-specific, supervised by a pastor, and reviewed annually for renewal based on ongoing need. 

At it's April 2026 meeting, SEPA’s Synod Council approved the creation of a SAM task force to further explore the opportunities, challenges, and possibilities that might exist by creating a SAM program in SEPA Synod. The task force’s final report is due to SEPA’s Synod Council in April 2027. 

​

To learn more about Synod Authorized Ministry, contact: 

• The Rev. Erika Wesch, Assistant to the Bishop for Formation