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 Pastor Severson at

Click here for information about the ELCA ‘s candidacy process→

Discernment Resources

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.