The function of the pastor is described in Scripture as an equipping role to help members of the body connect in meaningful service.

A longstanding tradition among churches has been to use the word pastor to mean three functions – shepherd, overseer, and elder (poeima, episcopos, and presbuteros). This practice is rightly called a tradition since Scripture never prescribes that the word pastor refers to a ranking title that includes all three roles. Non-traditional doesn’t mean non-biblical. 

The English word pastor occurs only once in the New Testament (Ephesians 4:11-12) in a plural form where its context is coupled with teachers and reads “pastors and teachers, to equip the people for works of service so that the body of Christ may be built up…”.

Wondering what being a female pastor means to us? Below is an excerpt from Pastor Bill’s ordination speech for Pastor Angie, recorded on March 7, 2021.