How to Become an Ordained Minister
Becoming an ordained minister can be one of the most rewarding choices a person can make. In most evangelical circles, the ordained minister holds a place of high esteem and serves his or her people out of a heart of love. Consider carefully if a life of service to people and the church is where your calling is before beginning this path.
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Things You'll Need
- A calling to serve as a minister
- Support of family members and friends
- Dedication to theological study
- A desire to serve people
Instructions
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Discuss your calling to the ministry with your own pastor or other seasoned minister. These people can give you important insights as you begin pursuing ordination.
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Apply for a preaching license within your particular denomination. This will allow you to begin doing a few things under the supervision of an ordination committee.
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Attend the college most closely affiliated in doctrine with the denomination you want to work in. There are many colleges that offer degrees in theology, so be sure the one you choose matches your own doctrine.
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Serve in as many pastoral situations as you can during college to gain experience. Many colleges have lists of churches needing supply preaching while pastors are on vacation.
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Look for potential internship positions while in college. Serving under an experienced minister will give you invaluable training and insight.
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Research possible places you can attend seminary. Many denominations require seminary training after an undergraduate degree before ordination can take place.
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Fulfill any specific requirements given you from your ordination board. When these requirements or timelines are fulfilled, you will apply to the board for formal ordination.
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Tips & Warnings
Be sure your wife or husband supports your desire to be an ordained minister. Being a minister is more than a full time job and will require family sacrifices.
Take your time! A good minister is well-trained and ready to accept the role of pastor. Getting in a hurry will cause you to miss important learning opportunities along the way.
Becoming an ordained minister is not simply a way to make a living. If you see this as a job opportunity with good pay and benefits and not as a calling, you should reconsider.
