The Standing Committee has three main functions: oversight, advice, and in the absence of any bishop, ecclesiastical authority of the diocese.
The committee must consent to elections of bishops throughout The Episcopal Church; to matters regarding disposition of church property including any encumbrances, openings, or closings, to candidacy and ordination of deacons and priests; and to appointments to major boards. They also may meet regularly with the diocesan bishop as a confidential council of advice.