Candidacy

Candidacy is the process to prepare individuals for ordained or rostered lay ministry. The candidacy committee of each synod in the ELCA, supported by ELCA Vocation and Education, oversees the candidacy process. A strong partnership between the candidate and the congregation, candidacy committee, seminary, and ELCA Vocation and Education is essential to a healthy candidacy experience. This partnership also demonstrates the involvement of the wider church in discerning the call to ordained or rostered lay ministry.  A good place to learn more about candidacy is in the website of the ELCA Vocation and Education.

Candidacy Committee Meetings

The candidacy committee of the Saint Paul Area Synod convenes five times each year. At any of these meetings, candidates can meet with entrance, endorsement, or approval panels, provided that all necessary steps have been completed. Please be sure to let the synod office know when you are hoping to meet with a panel for one of the candidacy milestones (entrance, endorsement, or approval). That way, we can let you know what materials are needed and monitor the progress of the pieces arriving in the synod office.

Call Us!

We realize the challenges of preparing for rostered ministry and are committed to providing every opportunity for you to speak with someone who can be of assistance should you have any questions or concerns. The bishop and staff of Saint Paul Area Synod welcome the opportunity to offer whatever assistance they can as you explore the possibility of becoming a pastor or professional lay leader in the ELCA. In addition, you have been assigned a contact person from the candidacy committee who would welcome the chance to talk with you, in person, on the phone, or by email. 

For More Information

Sister Noreen Stevens, Candidacy Coordinator
Synod Office: 651.224.4313
Home Office: 651.815.1145