Candidacy for Licensed & Ordained Ministry
Growing in faith. Preparing for service. Confirming God’s call.
For many, the call into ministry begins as a quiet stirring - an inner nudge to serve God more deeply, to lead, to teach, to offer compassion, or to help others discover God’s love. In the Susquehanna Conference, we believe that when God calls, the Church responds together. We walk with you as you discern, prepare, and step into the work God is unfolding in your life.
The candidacy process in The United Methodist Church is both a journey of spiritual discernment and a pathway of professional preparation. You will pray, reflect, learn, and grow. You will also complete assessments, work with mentors, and meet with committees who help confirm your gifts for ministry. Through it all, our goal is to support you as you seek faithful clarity.
Where the Journey Begins
Your first step is simple: talk with your pastor about how you sense God calling you. They can guide your early discernment, provide a Discern. Listen journal, help you explore The Christian as Minister book, and introduce you to your District Committee on Ordained Ministry (DCOM), which helps clarify your call and the expectations of ministry.
What to Expect in the Candidacy Process
Financial support, including scholarships offered through the Board of Ordained Ministry and grants from the Student Aid Fund, are available.
The Three Primary Paths of Ministry
Steps Toward Commissioning and Ordination
After the District Committee on Ministry (DCOM) affirms your call and certifies you as a candidate, you begin preparing for commissioning as a provisional Deacon or Elder. Commissioning asks, “Is this person ready to serve in ministry?”
After a period of provisional service - supported by mentoring, evaluation, and formation - you may apply for ordination, which asks, “Is this person bearing fruit and ready to serve the wider Church?” Our Board of Ordained Ministry reviews your work and reflections to help discern your readiness.
Ready to Start?
Discerning a call to ministry can feel overwhelming - but you are never alone. We provide mentoring, guidance, and support throughout the process, helping you grow in faith and gain clarity about God’s call.
- Talk with your pastor about how you sense God calling you.
- Connect with your Conference Superintendent to explore candidacy and next steps.
- Engage with a provided mentor for guidance, reflection, and support as you move through the process.
- Complete requirements including background checks, psychological assessments, and educational preparation.
- Spend time in spiritual discernment through prayer, retreats, and conversation.
Trust that the Holy Spirit will guide each step. The Board of Ordained Ministry and the wider Church are honored to walk alongside you on this journey.
Candidacy Resources
- Answering the Call Guidebook
- Candidate for Ministry Process
- Candidate for Ministry Tracking Sheet
- Commissioning Checklist
- Candidacy Forms and Documents
- Handbook for Provisional Deacons
-Handbook for Provisional Elders
- Handbook for Local Pastors
- Licensing School
- Personal Data Inventory
- Personal Reference Form
- Service Requirements
Rev. Steve Salisbury
Chair, Board of Ordained Minister