SPRC Guidelines for Walking with a Person Discerning a Call to Ministry  

  1. Know that this is a sacred duty and must be covered in prayer.
  2. The SPRC can utilize these resources to help understand the process and role: 
  3. Be familiar with Paragraphs 501-506 in the 2024 Book of Doctrines and Discipline.
  4. Does the person meet the qualifications in 505 & 506 of the BODD?
  5. Ensure that the person discerning a call has explored the Candidacy Guidebook of the GMC. (This is a great tool to help discern. There will be an official time of working through the guidebook with a mentor after local church approval.)
  6. Can the person effectively and efficiently articulate their call to ministry?
  7. Do they have the ability to effectively and adequately teach the faith?
  8. Has the person spent time being mentored by their pastor or other leader in the church?
  9. Has this person demonstrated leadership within the local church?
  10. What are the Spiritual Gifts of this person?
  11. Are they aware of the educational requirements of ministry?
  12. Are they familiar with the doctrine of the Global Methodist Church?
  13. Are they actively engaged in a process of spiritual accountability? (Class Meeting, Band, Reunion Group)
  14. Do they accept responsibility of any failings in ministry? Are they humble?
  15. Would you accept this person as your pastor?