Your Part In

the Credentialing Process of the

Rocky Mountain District of the EFCA

 

Thank you for your willingness to submit to the credentialing processes of the EFCA.  We understand that these steps will represent a serious effort on your part and a sacrifice of time and energy.  It is our prayer that you will find this process to be edifying and encouraging as well as challenging.  We look forward to serving the Lord with you through the ministries of the Evangelical Free Church of America, particularly in the Rocky Mountain District.

 Your task is to offer both your own interpretation and your support for each item contained in the EFCA Statement of Faith. We will want to be assured that your understanding is consistent with that of the EFCA and that each item is fully endorsed by you. Your support should include both Scriptural references and your own statements. Be willing to indicate any item where your own doctrine is in contrast with the stated doctrine of the EFCA.

 Be sure to fulfill the other requirements before your council. We need a letter from your church and you need to do the required reading. You also must be a member of an EFCA church (in most situations). Other letters and information are also required. Your file must be full 45 days prior to your council.

 Please remember that this thesis is submitted in preparation for your oral council. The council members will have carefully read your thesis and will come prepared to ask questions. Understand that this questioning process is important and sometimes quite thorough.   You should have a copy of your thesis for your own use with whatever preparatory notes you desire. You will also have access to your Bible.

 The council for licensing is done within the Ministerial Committee. You will be examined by up to 8 men who will ask questions on each section of your paper in order. The council is tape-recorded so that full minutes can be sent to EFCA headquarters. In a normal licensing council the committee members are allowed to make comments which are meant to give guidance and direction for further thought. They may also give limited instruction. Plan on about 2 to 3 hours.

 The council for ordination or transfer of ordination is a more formal council. The paper guidelines are the same but the council members are encouraged not to give guidance or instruction. Ordination councils are generally consisting of up to 15 men and women. The stated rules are that we must have five pastors and five laypersons from at least five different churches. Only members of EFCA churches can vote on a council, but others may attend. In the ordination council there is a greater expectation of competency in the doctrinal areas. If that is not seen, we reserve the right to suggest an extension of the licensing period or further work in a certain area before the recommendation is sent to EFCA headquarters. Plan on 2-3 hours.

 You are welcome to bring members of your church with you to the council. We view this as important for the elders of a church and encourage their participation. Not more than three representatives from any individual church may vote, however. For obvious reasons, we do not allow family members to sit in on the councils.

 Be sure to submit the “personal information” pages with your paper. If you are coming for ordination following a 3-year license, this information should be updated.

 Our goal is not to try to stump you or trap you with questions. This is not an academic exam. Rather, we take this opportunity to seek to understand how the Lord has led you thus far and whether your doctrine is consistent with the EFCA. If necessary, we will suggest further study in certain areas and we reserve the right to ask for addenda to this paper. We may also ask you to work with a mentor in a certain area. This is usually not necessary, but it has been very helpful in several instances.

 Please seek to be honest and forthright in both your paper and your oral council. We care about you and the ministry God has called you to perform. If we can be of help to you in any way, we will seek to do so. The more information we have concerning your doctrine, the better we can give guidance and encouragement.

 One more note: As you prepare for this council, please understand that we want to know what you think. Your church might see things a little differently than you. We do not want to debate or consider the specific practices of your congregation. Instead, our focus is on your beliefs and feelings.

 Questions? Just ask!

  Gregory Fell, RMD Superintendent     719-660-9001