God uses the giftedness of Parish Ministry Associates (PMAs) in many ways in service in congregations, in the community, and in the world. PMAs share in making known God’s love and hope for the world through formal service activities such as supply preaching, serving as interim pastors, congregational teams and committees, spiritual care, adult and children’s education, congregational leadership, and service to the national and regional church bodies. In addition, PMAs also utilize their training and giftedness as they participate in God’s mission in the world by listening to and sharing with friends, family, neighbors, and co-workers.
Parish Ministry Associates is a program of the Central States Synod of the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America that was begun in 1993. It has been growing steadily ever since as people respond to God’s call to serve in the local / larger church community. Many PMAs serve within their own congregations. Others are active in other congregations or church bodies through authorization of the Synod Bishop.