Those preparing for licensing and ordination in The United Methodist Church formally explore their call to ministry through a process of inquiry and candidacy as required in The Book of Discipline (¶310-314).
The process begins as a period of exploration and discernment, followed by the formal application and support of one's candidacy application by her or his local church and district. After a mentoring process and becoming officially certified by the district committee, candidates complete additional requirements set by their annual conference, including education and ongoing interviews with a district committee and conference Board of Ordained Ministry.
During this process, each candidate is evaluated on their personal, spiritual, academic, and professional qualifications for serving in ministry.
Learn more about the process of becoming a Candidate"
See more details about becoming a Local Pastor"
See more details about becoming a Provisional Member"
Sources: A Dictionary for United Methodists, Alan K. Waltz (Copyright 1991, Abingdon Press) and The Glossary of Candidacy Terms (www.gbhem.org).
