| Candidacy | Candidacy
Candidacy Process
The process of candidacy is established by the ELCA Department of Candidacy. However, to assist potential candidates for rostered ministry, we have included a checklist of initial steps for candidates.
If you feel that God is calling you to rostered leadership in the church and are exploring the possibility of seeking candidacy in the Evangelical Lutheran Church in America, here are some initial steps:
Candidacy Initial Steps
1. Talk with your pastor about your interest.
2. Visit ELCA Department of Candidacy and read the selections entitled Thinking About Ministry, "Types of Rostered Ministry, and The Candidacy Process.
3. Contact Pastor Elaine Watskey or 602-957-3223 and ask that a copy of a small book, "What Shall I Say?" be sent to you.
4. Read the book, pray for direction and guidance. Continue to have dialogue with your pastor and leaders in your congregation about your interest. You should also read the document Vision and Expections.
5. Look up the Entrance to Candidacy application form at the ELCA's web site. Read this and prepare an Entrance Essay by responding to the questions indicated. While visiting this portion of the ELCA site, scroll up to the top of the page and note the link to "Candidate Checklists." You will find this information helpful.
When you have finished preparing your essay, go on-line and fill out the five pages of the application form, including your essay and the Entrance Information form. Before submitting these on-line, print out a copy for your own file and one to send to the Synod office along with a check for $525 (which will be applied to your Background Check and the Career Counseling/Psychological testing). The check should be made out to the Grand Canyon Synod or you can pay online with your PayPal or Credit/Debit Card.
6. There are a number of other things to be done before you will be ready for an Entrance Interview. When your Application for Entrance to Candidacy, Entrance Information form, and application fee are received in the Synod office, you will be sent further information that will enable you to schedule an Initial Interview, contact the ELCA-certified pscyhologist who will do the Career Counseling and Psychological Testing, and complete the Background Check. Your congregation will also be asked to fill out a Registration form and will have an opportunity to indicate the level of financial support it is able to provide you as you fulfill the education requirements for rostered leadership in the ELCA.
7. The important thing to remember about candidacy is that it is a process and involves developing a relationship with the Candidacy Committee. As Minister for Candidacy, Pastor Glover is available to help you through what may seem initially to be an involved and bewildering candidacy process. He can also give you substantial advice and direction all along the way. Do not hesitate to make use of his knowledge and experience! Stay in touch with him when you have questions and as you move through the process.
8. While you are in the process of working through these initial steps, you may also explore seeking admission to seminary. The ELCA has eight seminaries. You can find information about them by clicking here.
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