Who's In the Room: Key People and Roles
1. Commissioners and Advisory Delegates
1.2. About Advisory Delegates
The General Assembly has sought to expand the table of representation through the invitation of advisory delegates. Advisory Delegates are selected “so that the assembly may be assured of hearing and taking cognizance of their special viewpoints.” (Standing Rule B.2.a)
Like commissioners, advisory delegates have both voice and vote in committee. In plenary sessions, advisory delegates only have voice. It is common, however, that advisory delegates are polled before important votes so that commissioners may be advised.
There are four types of advisory delegates.
Young Adult Advisory Delegates (YAADs) are between the ages of 17 and 23. Each presbytery is encouraged to elect a YAAD, making YAADs the largest group of advisory delegates.
Theological Student Advisory Delegates (TSADs) are inquirers or candidates under care of a presbytery who have at least one year remaining in their theological education following the assembly. TSADs are elected through applicable seminaries. The presbytery with whom they are under care then affirms their election to the assembly.
Eight Missionary Advisory Delegates (MADs) are chosen by the Presbyterian Mission Agency from those who serve as Mission Co-workers in international settings.
Each assembly invites fifteen Ecumenical Advisory Delegates (EADs) to attend the next assembly from churches within the United States of America and abroad.