Candidacy

Candidacy in the ELCA is the churchwide process of preparation and formation leading to the ordained ministry of Word and Sacrament, the consecrated ministry of diaconal minister or deaconess, or the commissioned ministry of associate in ministry. Candidacy involves a significant partnership that engages the candidate, congregation, synod, seminary and the Vocation and Education unit in guidance, evaluation, theological education and practical preparation. Interested individuals are encouraged to begin the process at least one year prior to planned study. Learn more about Exploring Your Call.

Read a letter of greeting and welcome to applicants for candidacy from Kim Beckmann, Director for Ministry Leadership – Candidacy and Deployment.

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          The Candidacy Process
          Entrance > Endorsement > Approval > Assignment and Call

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Entrance into candidacy occurs through a synod candidacy committee which provides guidance and makes decisions on behalf of the ELCA. Any person seeking to become a candidate for rostered ministry in the ELCA should contact a synod office for application information. Forms are to be filled out and submitted only after contact with the synod.

Forms for Applicants and Candidates
We have provided for you for easy access the links and documents of the forms that need to filled out during this process. The ELCA links sometimes change. If thes links found on the right hand column are not functioning please go to the ELCA website directly.

Formatta Filler 6.0
Please note Formatta Filler 6.0 is required to open and view these forms. Formatta Filler allows you to complete, save, print, and/or e-mail forms on your pc (but not Mac), avoiding the hassle of filling in the forms by hand. Please visit http://www.elca.org/it/Formatta/Filler6Instructions.html to download.