The Covenant of Trust is a study guide developed for the ministers and congregations of the Cumberland Presbyterian Church to: define ethical standards of ministry that are clear to the ministers and congregations; help the session and congregation better understand stresses in the ministry and the parameters of accepted ministerial conduct; help congregations explore ways they can healthily support their ministers; define accountability between the ministers, session, congregation, and presbytery, guided by The Constitution" and "Rules of Discipline" in the Confession of Faith for Cumberland Presbyterians; aid in the creation of an atmosphere of trust and protection based upon mutual understanding.