As I explore the call placed on me from the Lord, I recognize that people, whether in the official denomination system or everyday person like you and me, seem to always want proof of training.
I suppose in many categories it is important to have formal education. I use a little homeopathic medicine from time-to-time, but if I need surgery I want a doctor who has a degree in it. Since eternity is a little longer than surgery, anyone you reach out to for guidance should have a little more familiarity with the source material (Holy Bible).
I am a member of a major denomination church. They have their own program for training laity, and ordained ministers. I reached out to my pastor and asked about getting started in the process.
The information the pastor gave me wasn’t the right stuff. It was a course for someone two or three steps further along. I contacted the district office for more information.
I learned that the courses will be done virtually, but they are still in the process of revising them. In short, there is no training currently available. So I am doing what I do best. I am stepping outside the box and getting training elsewhere.
I did a little research. I decided on Christian Leaders Institute (CLI) because they have a program that transfers to a traditional college for a traditional degree, if I were to choose that route. For now, the self-paced programs are enough.
I have completed the Officiant Ministry Skills certification. I have some endorsements that must be reviewed and accepted to complete the steps for the Licensed Ministry Clergy.
The Licensed Ministry Clergy role is designed for those interested in “ministry” officiant roles. This role does not include performing a wedding (I’m also certified for weddings) ceremony but does include a wide variety of ministry duties. Such as:
Baptisms and Dedications
Funerals
The Lord’s Supper
Professions of Faith
Confessions of Sin
Forgiveness Prayers and Ceremonies
Anointing Ceremonies
Care Facilities Visits
Spiritual Warfare
Master of Ceremony
While this isn’t the major denomination approved process, I will be able to help those in need, and they can see my piece of paper that says I can help.