Candidacy
And we know that in all things God works for the good of those who love God, who have been called according to God’s purpose.
– Romans 8:28
Consider Rostered Leadership within the Church
If you have considered a vocation within the church, there is no better time to explore the possibilities than right now. Whether you are preparing for college, graduating, or considering a career change, information, resources, and people are available to help you with this important decision. For more information, call 773-248-0021 or email
Click here for information about the ELCA ‘s candidacy process→
Candidacy Process
ENTRANCE
Entrance begins a journey of discernment to explore an individual’s potential for rostered ministry and readiness to start the process of theological study and candidacy in the ELCA.
Note: The entrance process ideally takes place prior to starting seminary coursework. Only one semester or approximately three-four seminary classes can be taken prior to a positive Entrance decision.
Completing coursework prior to a positive Entrance can significantly increase the time needed in the candidacy process required to meet formation competencies. Also, some scholarship funding requires a positive Entrance decision and good standing in candidacy for application.
**We are experiencing significant backlog in getting the psychological evaluations scheduled — the sooner you apply, the better.**
ENDORSEMENT
Endorsement comes about halfway through your formation process, typically after you have taken basic courses bible, theology, Lutheran Confessions, as well as successfully completed one unit of Clinical Pastoral Education. This stage encourages and affirms those who clearly demonstrate gifts and qualities for a specific form of ministry in the ELCA, as well as identifies areas for growth and development as you prepare for your internship.
APPROVAL
Approval comes after your internship, near the conclusion of your theological education. It is a time in the journey when the candidate articulates the call to ministry and demonstrates readiness to assume a leadership role as a rostered minister in the ELCA.
Upcoming Meetings
November 14-16, 2024
January 30-February 1, 2025
May 2025 TBA
August 21-23, 2025
November 13-15, 2025
If you have questions about the process and deadlines for submission of materials please email the MCS Director of Candidacy at
ELCA Resources
Leadership Resources
If you have considered a vocation within the church, there is no better time to explore the possibilities than right now.
List of objectives, responsibilities, and contact information for each conference of the Metropolitan Chicago Synod.
The Rostered Ministers Gathering planning team has worked diligently to create an engaging and relational gathering for our leaders.