APPLICATION PROCEDURE

1. Once the necessary course work has been completed (see the Policy Manual for Credential Applicants for a list of courses), the first-time credential applicant and the step-up applicant should contact the District Office to obtain an Official Application for Ministerial Credentials. The official application will be mailed out with Information Authorization & Release form(s) and a Background Check Disclosure form.  All of the forms should be completed and returned to the District Office with any transcripts that pertain to ministry and with the appropriate filing fee (see the 2009 Credential Calendar).

2. A background check will be run on the applicant, and upon receipt of a favorable report, an application packet will be sent to the applicant.

3. The applicant will be required to take an examination under the supervision of a proctor or at the district office (by appointment only).

4. The applicant must have their completed application materials in the district office by November 1.

5. The applicant and their spouse/fiancée/fiancé (if applicable) will be interviewed by the Credentials Committee at the School of Ministry in February.  The School of Ministry is a two-day event which all License, Specialized License, and Ordination applicants are required to attend.  The Certificate of Ministry applicants only attend for their interviews.

6. The District Presbytery will consider the Credential Committee’s recommendation and forward the application to the General Council for final approval.

7. The minister will be presented with his/her credential at the Minnesota District Council meeting in April.