|
The ELCA has four distinct rostered ministries.
Candidacy is the churchwide process of discernment, preparation and formation leading to rostered ministry. It is a partnership that engages candidate, congregation, synod, seminary, and the Division for Ministry in guidance, evaluation, theological education and practical preparation.
Potential candidates are strongly encouraged to begin the candidacy process one full year prior to beginning theological education. An applicant must be an active member of an ELCA congregation for a minimum of one year prior to registration at the seminary. ELCA members interested in rostered ministry through seminary preparation should first contact their synodical office to begin "entrance." Click here for the ELCA's Division for Ministry online candidacy information.
Entrance
- This includes time for discernment and completion of the candidate application form which is received from the synod.
- Under the guidance and direction of the synod, the applicant completes the application process and participates in several interviews.
- As a partner in discernment, the home congregation is asked to register and support the applicant.
- A candidacy committee makes an entrance decision on an individual's potential for rostered ministry and readiness to begin theological study.
- An applicant must receive a positive entrance decision prior to seminary study. Those who are unclear as to vocational goals, but capable of theological study, should not be discouraged by this entrance requirement.
Endorsement
- Endorsement occurs during study at the seminary. Continued growth in preparation for rostered ministry is evaluated and affirmed. A reflective essay and interview are included at this step as developmental goals are identified for each individual. A positive endorsement decision by the candidacy committee enables a candidate to participate in an ELCA internship or supervised field study.
Approval
- Approval occurs during the final year of study and indicates the church's confidence that the candidate is ready to begin service in one of the rostered ministries of the ELCA. The approval decision is made by the candidacy committee in consultation with ELCA seminary faculty. The Wartburg faculty evaluates and determines its recommendation of Wartburg students who are in the candidacy process. Once approved, candidates participate in a churchwide assignment process and are then eligible to receive a Letter of Call for service in the church.
The Admissions staff will assist you through the admission process upon your request.
Admissions
Wartburg Theological Seminary
333 Wartburg Place
P.O. Box 5004
Dubuque, IA 52004-5004
800-225-5987 or 563-589-0203
email: admissions@wartburgseminary.edu
|
(1).jpg)
