The moderator is thus the chairperson, and is understood to be a member of the court acting primus inter pares.
This convention expresses deference to the authority of the court rather than an honour for the moderator as an individual.
In addition to chairing the Session, the interim moderator conducts public worship or organizes a rota of locums to do so, attends to the most urgent pastoral and administrative needs, and guides the congregation through the process of appointing a new minister.
The moderator acts as clerk when no other appointment can be made, but "this practice should last no longer than is absolutely unavoidable".
The principal clerk to the General Assembly holds a full-time position.
Until 2010 the position of deputy clerk was also a full-time post but it has now reverted to being a part-time appointment.
The clerks work together with the Procurator and the Solicitor of the Church to ensure the legal correctness of the actions of the Assembly.