Licensing School & Course of Study
Preparing Licensed Local Pastors for Faithful Leadership
The Local Pastor Licensing School (LPLS) and Course of Study (COS) provide foundational theological and leadership formation for those called to serve as licensed local pastors in the Susquehanna Conference. These programs equip students for ministry, deepens spiritual formation, and ensures readiness for appointment in the Church.
Local Pastor Licensing School (LPLS)
2026 Dates:
February 20–22 | March 20–22 | April 17–19
Location: Wesley Forest Camp & Retreat Center, 58 Wesley Forest Lane, Weikert, PA 17885
Contact: Rev. Greg Milinovich
The LPLS is an 80-hour program designed to prepare certified candidates or those in the certification process for appointment as a local pastor. Students engage in facilitated learning on topics such as worship, preaching, mission, evangelism, theology, pastoral care, administration, and more.
Important Notes:
- Candidates must be approved by their District Committee on Ministry (DCOM) at certified candidacy level or be in the candidacy process and approved to attend by their District Superintendent.
- Attendance at all sessions is required to fulfill the Book of Discipline (¶ 315.2c).
- Completion of Licensing School does not guarantee appointment or licensing; it prepares candidates for ministry appointment.
Questions About LPLS
- About becoming a Local Pastor: Pastor Rebecca Cuddeback
- About Susquehanna LPLS School: Rev. Amy Raser; Rev. Roger Mentzer; Rev. Greg Milinovich
If you cannot attend Susquehanna’s Licensing School, participating in Licensing Schools run by another United Methodist conference is permitted with each using different formats. Contact Pastor Rebecca Cuddeback to learn about other options.
Course of Study (COS)
The Course of Study is a five-year theological and leadership education program for licensed local pastors. COS provides Licensed Local Pastors with a strong foundation in Scripture, Wesleyan theology, congregational leadership, and pastoral practice. Students engage in courses designed to equip them for effective ministry in local churches.
Resources & Guides
Funding
- Local church Pastoral Education Funds should be used as primary funding.
- Additionally, through the Board of Ordained Ministry, when students complete a course with C or higher they may request reimbursement of $225 per course.
- Students may also request an additional $125 per course from their quadrenial MEF funds of $2500. This would make reimbursement per course up to $350 which is the current cost of most courses.
- To seek reimbursement, email transcript Registrar, Licensed Local Pastors/Associate Members (contact information on the side).
Pastor Calvin Miller
Chair, Fellowship of Local Pastors and Associate Members
Pastor Rebecca Cuddeback
Registrar, Licensed Local Pastors/Associate Members