Since 2001, Serving and Leading has served as a uniform and binding foundation for the actions of ministers. The policy is also aimed at members who perform a service in the Church without a ministry, including children and youth leaders, Religious Instruction and Confirmation teachers, choir and orchestra conductors, and leaders of working and project groups. 

Over the past 25 years, the Church has continued to evolve. In 2006, the Vision and Mission statements of the New Apostolic Church were published, followed by the Catechism in 2012, and the revised Guide for Ministers in 2022. These four foundational works are now reflected in the Serving and Leading policy, whose wording has been carefully harmonised with the Catechism in particular. 

In the past, greater emphasis was placed on the aspect of leading than on serving. This key focus has now been incorporated into the policy with a new chapter on “Serving”. A new chapter on “Participation and Representation” has also been added. Furthermore, all chapters have been reviewed, edited, and expanded to include clear practical guidance. 

The 16-page brochure emphasises that it was created to foster transparency and trust, while also promoting appreciation, motivation, and identification.