The Process of Joining ECO
As we move into the final months of 2012, PC(USA) presbyteries are meeting and more pastors and congregations are being dismissed into ECO. Checkout the ECO page to see the names of congregations and individuals as they complete the process.
A question that is often asked is, “When should we fill out applications to join ECO?”
While you must follow the process of your dismissing presbytery, we recommend submitting ECO applications at least 30 days prior to a congregational vote on dismissal, and at least 60 days prior to a presbytery vote.
This timing is important so interviews can be scheduled and the transition to the benefits services group of ECO can be facilitated without the possibility of a lapse in coverage. While the benefits services group has been phenomenal in working with our organization, quick turnarounds must be the exception and not the rule!
Two important things to remember:
- Applications to denominations are like applications to colleges. Just because you request and even submit an application does not mean you have made a commitment. It is better to begin the process with the potential receiving denominations early in your season of discernment.
- Application to ECO does not guarantee acceptance into ECO. The Committee on Assimilation will interview your pastors and session before making a final determination on your application.
Request an ECO application at least a month prior to your planned date of submission. This allows your session time to study and prayerfully answer the questions and approve the application. You can request your application by e-mail. You can also send particular questions about joining ECO to the appropriate moderators of the Presbyteries. Presbytery of the West (west of the Mississippi River) e-mail MJ Romano. Presbytery of the East (east of the Mississippi River) e-mail John Terech.
The First ECO Synod Meeting
As part of the Gathering January 30th – February 1st at Rosen Shingle Creek in Orlando, FL, we will have the inaugural Synod meeting of ECO. We are fine-tuning the business that is to be conducted by Synod including ordination process and other items to be discussed and approved.
In these early stages of ECO’s development, each congregation may send all pastors, associate pastors, and assistant pastors as well as affiliate pastors who are serving under ECO’s polity to Synod. Each congregation may also send an equal number of elders. Please ensure that all elder commissioners to Synod adhere to the Essential Tenets. The registration for Orlando will include an option to indicate if you are a commissioner to the ECO Synod. We look forward to seeing you there!