How to Be Ordained as a Presbyterian Pastor

Presbyterian pastors lead groups in Bible study.

Presbyterianism is a denomination within the Christian religion. Like other Christians, Presbyterians believe that Jesus Christ is the son of God, was born of a virgin, allowed himself to be persecuted on the cross to pay the price for the sins of mankind and rose from the dead three days after his burial. Becoming a Presbyterian pastor requires an abiding spiritual faith, strong leadership skills and the ability to speak clearly and passionately about your beliefs in front of large groups of people. The profession also requires a bachelor's and master's degree.

Instructions

1. Complete your education. A Presbyterian pastor is required to have a bachelor's degree and a master's degree in divinity from a theological seminary. Master's programs are typically three years in length. According to Education-Portal.com, many MDIV programs prefer applicants with bachelor's degrees in philosophy, religious studies or theology. Applicants must also submit letters of recommendation, as well as competitive scores from the Graduate Record Examination. Coursework will likely include counseling theories, moral philosophy, Jewish studies, organizational management and contemporary issues in religion.

2. Feel God's calling to love and serve the church through becoming a pastor. If you're unsure, sit quietly and pray that God makes your direction unmistakably clear. Remain open to signs of confirmation all around you, whether its a conversation you overhear between strangers, a billboard on your route home or a line from your favorite movie. Trust your instincts.

3. Join a Presbyterian church. Participate in active membership for at least six months; at the end of that time, contact the Session presiding over the church and indicate you'd like to become a pastor. You must receive their endorsement in order to continue.

4. Apply and interview with the Presbytery, after receiving your Session endorsement. If you're accepted, you must come under care of the presbytery for at least one year. During this time, you must demonstrate a strong faith, a clear understanding of Presbyterian church traditions and knowledge of your future pastoral responsibilities. You'll also go under intense preparation and training.

5. Pass written and oral ordination exams that demonstrate your expertise and competency in the Bible, theology, church policy, the Sacraments and worship; passing your exam will also display knowledge you've gained through being a hospital chaplain and/or holding a church internship.

6. Submit your completed qualifications in order to get ordained and installed as a Presbyterian pastor by the presbytery.

References

• Presbytery of New Covenant: Becoming a Minister
• The Union Theological College: Becoming a Presbyterian Minister
• Evangelical Presbyterian Church: MV Qualifications for Ordination
• Education Portal: Master's in Divinity Program