This page explains the ongoing responsibility that follows ordination and ministry recognition. Calling is discerned, preparation is formed, ordination is recognized, and validity is established, but ministry does not remain static. Annual renewal ensures that ministers remain accountable, active, and connected within their fellowship. For how ordination is recognized, see Christian ordination, and for how ministers are supported in community, see ministerial association.
Return to the full pathway here: Christian ordination.
Annual renewal is the process of confirming a minister’s connectedness with their ministerial fellowship. Among the many reasons for its necessity, here are a few core points.
It demonstrates that the individual is not:
Deceased
Mentally Declining
Incarcerated
A Registered Sex Offender
Actively Pursuing Ministry
Makes themselves accountable to their fellowship.
By keeping their contact details up to date.
Participating in fellowship (by example attending local gatherings, offering prayer, replying to discussions, knowing their local elders, etc.)
Seeking daily by God’s grace to live in a manner pleasing to our God.
Responding to our administration should someone report them for unethical conduct. And in such a case, agreeing to have our administration guide them through resolution.
Thereby, making the minister regularly, and duly licensed as an independent minister in “good standing” with the National Association of Christian Ministers.
To complete your understanding of ministry expectations and doctrinal alignment, review the Statement of Faith.
To return to the complete ordination framework, see Christian ordination.
