Definition: What is a Ministerial Association
A ministerial association is a fellowship of ministers who unite to develop as ministers, both spiritually and professionally. Members seek to advance the causes of Christianity through networking and the exchange of ministry related resources and information. Common references include: minister’s association, pastoral association, association of clergy, association of churches, and ministerial fellowship.
As an Organization
1) Unapologetically Christian and Christ Centered
We are specifically a Christian organization that declares Jesus Christ as the only way to the Father (John 14:6, ESV). For this reason, we only partner with sincere Christian ministries who uphold this same standard.
According to the World Christian Encyclopedia (2001), there are tens of thousands of Christian denominations worldwide. Yet Jesus prayed that the world would see His Lordship through the visible unity of His people (John 17:23). Therefore, as a ministerial fellowship we do not divide over secondary doctrines that do not pertain to salvation. Our membership includes ministers from many denominational protestant, evangelical, and non denominational backgrounds (for example, Baptist, Methodist, Pentecostal, Lutheran, Presbyterian).
2) Online and In Person Fellowship and Support
As a ministerial association we meet regularly in person, by phone, by email, and in our online network for prayer, encouragement, information exchange, and Bible study. Our goal is to appoint elders in major U.S. cities to hold ordination services and offer local support. We also commit to regular study of God’s Word, awareness of the current condition of Christianity, and establishing ministries that meet the needs of future generations.
3) Advancing the Cause of Christ with Prayerful Discernment
We sincerely desire to advance the Gospel of Jesus Christ. All ordination applications are prayed over by our administration, and we take careful steps to verify our ministers, including pastoral interviews, sex offender checks, prudent internet reviews, and clear confessions of faith.
How to Join a Ministerial Association
Joining a ministerial association like NACM is simple: review our statement of faith, complete the online application, and participate in a brief verification process. Once approved, you will gain access to ordination services, mentorship, and a nationwide network of ministers.
Christian Ministers Association and Fellowship Opportunities
As a Christian ministers association, NACM offers prayer support, regional meetups, online training, and opportunities to serve. Members connect locally and digitally to encourage one another and advance the Gospel together.
Related Article
See Evangelical Association for how our doctrinal commitments align with historic evangelical faith.
FAQ
What makes NACM different from a loose networking group
We center on Christ, unity around salvation essentials, prayerful ordination, and accountability. Members find both online connection and local, in person support.
Who can join this ministerial association
Believers who affirm the Gospel of Jesus Christ and demonstrate a call to ministry may apply for membership and, where appropriate, ordination. Applications are reviewed prayerfully and include verification steps.
Is NACM only online or also local
Both. We provide a robust online network and also develop local elder leadership for ordinations and regional gatherings across the U.S.
Where can I read more about minister associations
Start with our Ministers Association FAQ and the
Evangelical Association article for doctrinal context.
The Church’s Mission
The Church’s mission is outward focused, grounded in the Great Commission (Matthew 28:18 20). We equip ministers to view homes, workplaces, and communities as mission fields, serving Christ with humility and boldness.
References
- Holy Bible, English Standard Version.
- Barrett, D. B., Kurian, G. T., and Johnson, T. M. 2001. World Christian Encyclopedia 2nd ed.
- National Association of Christian Ministers. https://nacministers.com/