Resources for Clerks of Session & Church Treasurers

Your $45 per member gift supports vital ministry at all levels of the Presbyterian Church (USA)—locally in John Knox Presbytery, regionally in the Synod, and nationally through the General Assembly.

• General Assembly $11.26
• Synod of Lakes & Prairies $5.50
• John Knox Presbytery $28.24

It helps support pastors and congregations in transition, guide future church leaders, and strengthen the body of Christ beyond any single church.

Thank you for helping our church thrive!

John Knox Presbytery has prepared a resource to help churches care for their historical records, including session minutes, congregational registers, and other vital documents. These guidelines outline best practices for organizing, storing, and preserving records so they remain secure and accessible for future generations. Caring for these materials is an important way we honor the history and witness of each congregation.

• Old Session Minutes and Congregational Records by Stated Clerk Alyson Janke
• Link to Presbyterian Historical Society

Password Protected - Contact sr.admin@jknox.org to receive password.

A streamlined tool for congregations to submit per capita and mission giving to the presbytery, ensuring that congregational gifts are accurately tracked and directed toward the wider ministry of the church.

The Expense Voucher is used to request reimbursement from John Knox Presbytery for approved expenses. Whether covering travel, supplies, or other presbytery-related costs, submitting a completed voucher ensures timely and accurate reimbursement. Clear documentation helps keep financial records organized and transparent.

The Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)'s Book of Order (§ G-3.0113) sets requirements for each church to conduct an annual financial review. John Knox Presbytery and the Synod of Lakes & Prairies have developed the Full Financial Review guide in order to assist churches in meeting this requirement.

John Knox Presbytery maintains a set of policies to guide its operations, support congregations, and ensure consistent, transparent practices. These policies cover areas such as meeting procedures, record-keeping, financial oversight, and responses to emergencies or disruptions. They serve as a resource for church leaders and presbytery staff to carry out ministry effectively and responsibly.

The General Mission Pledge Form allows congregations to commit financial support to John Knox Presbytery’s mission and ministry. By completing this form, churches help plan and sustain the work of the presbytery, enabling outreach, programs, and support for congregations throughout the region.

John Knox Presbytery offers boundary training through the Synod of Lakes and Prairies to equip session members and church leaders with best practices for maintaining healthy relationships and appropriate boundaries within the congregation. This training helps protect leaders and members alike, fostering safe, accountable, and spiritually grounded ministry. This is not a replacement for boundary training required for inquirers, candidates, and ministers as outlined in the Book of Order - church sessions only.

These guidelines help congregations systematically review and maintain their session minutes, ensuring records are accurate, complete, and in compliance with presbytery requirements. Following these practices preserves the congregation’s history, supports transparency, and assists clerks and leaders in maintaining organized, reliable records.

The Session Minutes Review Checklist is a tool to help congregations ensure that their session records are complete, accurate, and in compliance with presbytery requirements. Using this checklist, clerks and church leaders can systematically review minutes, track important decisions, and maintain clear, organized records for the congregation’s history and accountability.

This form is used by congregations to seek presbytery approval for major property decisions, including buying, selling, or making significant improvements. Submitting a completed request ensures that property actions comply with presbytery policies and support responsible stewardship of church resources.

Used to formalize the specific terms of a covenant or contract between a pastor and a congregation. It provides a clear outline of responsibilities and expectations to support a healthy, accountable pastoral relationship.

This form is used when a congregation and pastor need to formally conclude their pastoral relationship. Completing the form ensures the process follows presbytery guidelines, maintains clear records, and supports a respectful and orderly transition for both the pastor and the congregation.

Written by Stated Clerk Alyson Janke