- 3 - From 1993 to 1996, petitioner was a part-time local pastor.3 The levels relevant to the year in issue are described as follows: 1. Certified Candidate: This level requires graduation from an accredited high school or receipt of a certificate of equivalency. 2. Local Pastor: A local pastor may be a student or a part-time or full-time position.4 This level requires attendance at a 2-week licensing school or completion of one-third of the work necessary for a master of divinity degree. This position is appointed annually. Local pastors continue in the course of study for ordained ministry until they have completed the educational requirements for associate or probationary membership.5 After completion of the educational requirements for an associate membership, however, an individual may choose to remain a local pastor. A local pastor may lead the sacraments (i.e., baptism, communion) at the appointed parish. 3. Associate Member: To be considered for associate membership, a candidate must have reached the age of 35 and served 4 years as a full-time local pastor. This level also requires completion of the educational requirements for local pastors, completion of the 5-year course of study for ordained ministry, and completion of at least 60 semester hours toward a bachelor’s degree. 3 Since 1996, petitioner has been a full-time local pastor, and, as of June 2002, was being considered for associate membership. 4 Local pastors may be part time if, for example, a church cannot afford a full-time local pastor. 5 Generally, a full-time local pastor must complete these educational requirements within 8 years and a part-time pastor within 10 years.Page: Previous 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 Next
Last modified: May 25, 2011