A person who has met all of the conditions set forth in The Book of Discipline for probationary membership and has been received by vote of the ministerial members of the annual conference. The probationary membership period is considered a trial period leading to full ministerial membership in the annual conference. During this period, probationary members complete their education and training, serve as pastors, and are evaluated as to their readiness and fitness for ministry.
Source: A Dictionary for United Methodists, Alan K. Waltz, Copyright 1991, Abingdon Press. Used by Permission.