The purpose of the Northern Association of the Penn Central Conference of the United Church of Christ is to strengthen and undergird the work and witness of the member congregations; to cooperate with Penn Central Conference and with the General Synod and its covenanted, associated, and affiliated ministries; to act upon the standing of ministers and congregations within the association; to assist the local churches and ministers in developing their own programs and offer counsel to them in situations calling for help beyond their own resources; and to provide through appropriate committees such programs, resources, and services as to advance the mission of Christ.