Advisory Opinions
Standing Rule G.2.e provides that the Stated Clerk of the General Assembly shall "give advisory opinions concerning the meaning of the provisions of the Constitution of the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.)." Through Advisory Opinions (AOs) the Stated Clerk offers a well-researched opinion and careful analysis on a provision or interpretation of the Constitution that is not clearly defined in the church’s life. It should be noted that Advisory Opinions are just that, opinions, and they are neither authoritative nor binding upon the Presbyterian Church (U.S.A.).
- Who may preside at the celebration of the Sacraments? (Updated 06/2023) (PDF)
- Administrative Commissions 12/12 (Updated 12/13/2022)(PDF)
- Communion in an Emergency/Pandemic (03/24/20) (PDF)
- Church in an Emergency/Pandemic (03/12/20 - Updated 03/24/20) (PDF) [Español] [ 한국어 ]
- Approved Amendment of W-4.9000 (PDF)
- Actions of the 221st General Assembly (2014) on Marriage (PDF)
- Ordination Standards and Procedures 10/12 (PDF)
- Per Capita Apportionments Updated 10/12 (PDF)
- Clergy Compensation Updated 10/12 (PDF)
- Administrative Review 12/12
- Freedom of Conscience, Dissent, Protest and Defiance 12/12
- Renunciation of Jurisdiction Updated 03/08 (PDF)
- Duties of a Stated Clerk Updated 6/09 (PDF)
- Receiving Ministers of Other Denominations Updated 5/09 (PDF)
- Alternative Form of Resolution Agreements (PDF)
- Criteria for Validating Ministry of Continuing Members (PDF)
- Implementing the Trust Clause for the Unity of the Church Updated 02/14 (PDF)
- Regarding Rights of Ex-Officio Members on General Assembly Entities of PC(USA) 08/09 (PDF)
- Ordination Standards and the new Form of Government (3/12)
- Standing in Solidarity(4/13)