607 - Ordination upon Seminary Completion

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Rejected

Comments

[Curtis Turner]

Other evanglical churches have a twelve step ordinatiion process designed to discover whether an ordination candidate's call is in fact from God. I believe that our church may have taken the "priesthood of all believers" too loosely by allowing some who would otherwise not be qualified serve. The five year time frame in which a person serves in ministry should be enough time to determine gifts for ministry. Seminary is a great starting block but it is by no means a fundamental qualifier for the Christian pastoral ministry.

[Casey Taylor]

As one presently studying in divinity school and chomping at the bit to be ordained "Elder," I understand the desire of some to be more quickly ordained. But Mr. Turner is correct, I think, in cautioning us to allow ordination process to be a process. America has seen the devastating effects of ordaining individuals not suitably fit for Christian leadership.

The one point that will only become a greater problem on this issue is the cost of higher education. Our denomination rightly demands its leaders to be theologically trained. But seminary/divinity school is not the "starting block." The cost of graduate school ought to make seminary a crucial step for those who have already pretty clearly discerned some call to ministry (unless you can afford to just go to school).

[Chadwick Anderson]

I had completed all ordination requirements, minus half a year of service in the Nazarene church...and now transferred last June to the Free Methodist Church, which has very similar standards. It may take a few years now, until I'm "ordained". I've been in full time ministry since 2001. I'm okay with that. :) There is still much to learn, and God won't wait to use me.

[Curtis Turner]

With the ready availability of on line educational tools, it seems that seminary extensions such as Spring Arbor University has with Asbury Theological Seminary should facilitate a more economical approach to gain the educational credentials needed. Close mentoring with a spiritual director such as retired Free Methodist ministers or others similarly qualified should be included in the "package."

[Rev. Vaughn W. Thurston-Cox]

I think most of us who have been ordained sympathize with those who would make the process shorter.

I agree that seminary is incredibly formative and even sifts those who may not be entirely committed to the ministry of Christ. That said, I feel very wise people understood the need for a set period of examination. It exacts something from us and really forces the question of our faith keeping with the Church. Will I be faithful to the Church when congregants gripe and complain? Will I be faithful when I disagree with my superintendent? Will I be faithful when my process towards ordination doesn't move as quickly as I want?

Those students who serve as pastors while in seminary are another case, I agree. But most will not. And there remains a need to allow ourselves to learn that faith.