GCI: Installation of a Pastor
The installation of a pastor should take place during a worship service in the congregation where the pastor will be serving.
Installation
The officiant asks the new pastor, and, if appropriate, that person’s spouse, to come forward. The officiant also invites the other elders who are present to come forward.
Officiant says: “[Person’s full name], it has become apparent to our elders, our church council and to our congregation that Jesus Christ has called you through the Holy Spirit to the office of pastor of the [name of congregation] congregation of Grace Communion International.”
Officiant asks: “[Person’s name], do you agree to faithfully and humbly serve the people of [congregation’s name] in the office of pastor, with Christ’s help, in the love of the Father, the grace of Jesus Christ and the fellowship of the Holy Spirit, and in accord with your denominational supervisors, to uphold the responsibilities and duties of that office?”
Person responds: “I do.”
The officiant asks the congregation: “Will you, [name of the congregation], faithfully support your pastor, pray for him/her and uphold him/her in the name of Jesus Christ in his/her office of pastor?
Congregation answers: “Yes, we will.”
The officiant then anoints the person with oil using a finger to apply a small amount to the person’s forehead and says:
In Christ’s name and in the power of the Holy Spirit, we hereby install you as pastor of the [church name] congregation of Grace Communion International.
The officiant then lays hands on the new pastor and asks the other elders to do the same, and offers a prayer of installation.
Sample prayer:
Our Father in heaven, we rejoice in our Lord Jesus Christ, thanking you for setting apart [person’s first name] through the Holy Spirit to serve as pastor of [church name]. We pray that you will bless him/her and fill him/her with wisdom, good judgment, courage, zeal, patience and your love that he/she might serve this congregation. This we pray in the name of the great Shepherd, Jesus Christ. Amen.