The Commission on Ministry is vitally involved in the Journey toward the Vocation of Ministry. This group has the responsibility to help and assist in partnership with the sponsoring congregation, those in our North Carolina churches discerning and preparing for ministry in response to God’s call. The regional church in this way provides a place to talk about one’s call and receive guidance and support. The Commission works with both those seeking to be and acting as commissioned ministers as well as those preparing for ordination. Applicants are usually taken “under care” for at least one year. A decision is made to commission or to follow through with their journey toward ordination. The Commission follows the policies for commissioning or ordaining each candidate to the office of ministry.
Ministry is truly a calling from God. Many such calls are narrated within the Bible such as Jesus’ calls to his disciples and Paul’s call to preach the Gospel. This call is both personal and affirmed by the Commission on Ministry and one’s local congregation. Support from the local congregation is important in granting a commissioned minister a particular ministry usually within the congregation. Those preparing for ordination are also asked to have the support of their home congregation who then most often serves as the setting for the ordination service.
For more information regarding the process or for general questions, please use the resource below.
Procedure and Overview Resources
- How to begin the journey toward vocation of ministry
- Application for Candidacy
- General Commission on the Order of Ministry
- Commission on Ministry Ordering of Ministry Manual
- Theological Foundations and Policies and Criteria for the Ordering of Ministry of the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ)
- Covenant Partnership Information
Coursework and Educational Resources
- School for Congregational Leadership at Barton College
- Lexington Theological Seminary
- Transforming the Church
- Center4Ministry
Ethical Resources
- Ministerial Code of Ethics
- General Commission On Ministry Policy And Procedures For Responding To Clergy Misconduct Of Persons Whose Standing Is Lodged With The General Commission On Ministry
Current Members of the Commission on Ministry:
- Rev. Baylee Smith (Chair)
- Rev. Brad McDowell
- Rev. Tony Sutton
- Rev. Dr. Kenneth Watson
- Mrs. Carrie Ragland
- Mrs. Deborah Miller
- Rev. Bill Moore
- Mrs. Deborah Buff
- Rev. Greg Jarrell
- Mr. Andre Rayner
- Rev. Marilyn Williams
- Bishop Valerie Melvin (Regional Minister)