Becoming a UCC Pastor
The United Church of Christ (UCC) celebrates that through the act of baptism, God calls all people to a vocation of love and service. The particulars of each person’s call and ministry vary with time, place, talents, experience, personal situation and responsibilities, and, importantly, the needs of the world.
The Church also recognizes a specific need for representative servant leaders “to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ” (Ephesians 4:12).
The UCC affirms God’s call to some individuals to be such leaders who help the Church to be what God intends it to be. Those called to serve and lead on behalf of the UCC and the Church Universal commit and engage in process of discernment, learning, growth, and formation.
Are you wondering about becoming a pastor in the UCC? Hallelujah! Share your wondering and your questions with your pastor who can join you for a first conversation with the Committee on Ministry (CoM) in your Association.
In that first conversation, you’ll find help gathering a Discernment Committee in your congregation to support you on your journey. In the many conversations to follow, you’ll find a mentor to offer guidance and help developing and completing the mix of on-site, online, and experiential education that will prepare you well for ministry in and for the UCC.
Already ordained or authorized in another denomination and want to learn about becoming a pastor in the Maine Conference? Talk with our Conference Staff to learn more about next steps.
