Department for Candidacy

Candidacy in the ELCA is the churchwide process of preparation and formation leading to the ordained ministry of Word and Sacrament, the consecrated ministry of diaconal minister or deaconess, or the commissioned ministry of associate in ministry. Candidacy involves a significant partnership that engages the candidate, congregation, synod, seminary and the Vocation and Education unit in guidance, evaluation, theological education and practical preparation. Interested individuals are encouraged to begin the process at least one year prior to planned study. Learn more about Exploring Your Call.

Read a letter of greeting and welcome to applicants for candidacy from Kim Beckmann, Director for Ministry Leadership – Candidacy and Deployment.

          The Candidacy Process
          Entrance > Endorsement > Approval > Assignment and Call

● Thinking about Ministry? ● Exploring Your Call ● Who, Me? Ordained? ● Who We Are PDF, 130KB	● Types of Rostered Ministry ● Ordained Pastoral Ministry ● Associates in Ministry ● ELCA Deaconesses ● Diaconal Ministry
● Additional Information ● Resource & Guidelines ● Candidacy Manual ● Candidacy Leaders' Handbook ● Approval Essay ● Forms for Candidates and Synods ● Internship in the ELCA PDF, 20KB	● Candidacy Leaders ● Candidacy Leaders Web Site ● Popular Resources ● Candidacy Manual ● Candidacy Leaders' Handbook ● Approval Essay ● Endorsement Essay ● Background Checks

Diaconal Ministry Formation Event (July 13-25, 2008)
The formation event is considered integral to the preparation of diaconal ministry candidates. Ideally the formation event precedes seminary study and will assist the candidate in shaping their course of study and field experience.