An associate pastor is someone who helps the main pastor at a church in leading and guiding the congregation. They may teach and preach, provide pastoral care, and assist with other church activities. Full definition
She's the new associate pastor of the congregation to which I belong. (religion-online.org)
The members acknowledge that women serve as associate pastors in churches similar to theirs; they are aware that women serve as sole pastors in neighboring towns. (religion-online.org)