Candidacy
Candidacy in the ELCA is the churchwide process of preparation and formation leading to ordained ministry, rostered lay ministry as a deaconess, diaconal minister or commissioned associate in ministry. It involves a partnership of the candidate, congregation, synod, synod candidacy committee, seminary, and the Congregational and Synodical Mission Unit of the ELCA. Learn more.
If you are considering a call to rostered ministry, we are eager to speak with you and help you get started. Please contact:
the Rev. Beth Kearney, bishop's staff for candidacy
the Rev. Mark Fitzsimmons, chair, NC Synod Candidacy Committee
Ms. Melanie Bookout, candidacy administrator
First Call Theological Education
First Call Theological Education (FCTE) is a three year structured program designed to help new rostered leaders transition into ministry. Components generally include core events/retreat, Fall Convocation, colleague groups, individual support for planning continuing education, and shared reading. Congregations participate by providing time away and funds for continuing education, and by sharing in conversations with first call leaders.
In the North Carolina Synod, FCTE generally begins with dinner preceding “Get to Know Your Synod Day” in early September. First year leaders are expected to attend Fall Convocation, and Colleague groups begin in November.
To learn more, contact task group chair Rev. Marcus Ollis, bishop’s staff liaison The Rev. Phil Tonnesen, or see the ELCA web pages by clicking here.
