What's a parish associate?

Well, let's clarify a few things first. A parish associate is not the pastor, or assistant pastor, or co-pastor.
A parish associate is clergy that has a primary ministry outside the church. We know that God works everywhere, inside and outside the church.
Because that ministry is outside the church that clergy does well to have a formal relationship with a church to promote their own spiritual growth as well of the spiritual growth in the church. It is a relationship and not a call. (ie it is not a paying job) Don't worry, I have no intention of stepping on the pastor's toes except for the occasional stumble. (If you know me, then you know that was a joke.) What I will be providing your pastor is an occasional break from preaching, assistance with communion and home communion, and leadership with the Saturday morning spiritual/listen to our lives/lectio divina group, which is my joy and pleasure.