Frequently Asked Questions

Whether you are a youth or a college student or already in seminary, a single person, a married mother of two, or getting ready to retire from your first career you may have growing questions as you discern and examine God's calling on your life. Take a few moments and review the information below. And for those of you who are looking toward Local Pastor or Deacon status there are Frequently Asked Questions just for you.

If I'm thinking about professional ministry, where do I begin?

You can check out information about service as a Deaconess or Home Missioner, Professional Certification in Specialized Ministry, Endorsement as a Chaplain, service as a long-term or short-term Missionary, or Clergy service as a Deacon, an Elder, or a Local Pastor. Meanwhile, you can talk with your pastor or campus ministry director about ways you can serve in your local church to further explore your call. You can also explore opportunities for training as a Lay Servant, which can expand your leadership opportunities as you discern. 

If I'm thinking about ordained or licensed ministry, where do I begin?

The short answer is first to be in prayer about this decision. Once you are convinced God is urging you to seek professional ministry - or if you aren't quite convinced but need a discernment partner - contact your pastor or another United Methodist clergy person. Tell him or her that the pastor's page is available as a guide. Also, it would do you well to review the steps outlined on the candidate's page. 

How do I get registered for the online candidacy system?

Your district office will register you once you have met with your District Superintendent. 

How do I get to my Passage UMC account?

Please follow this LINK to the Passage UMC system.

I can't remember my Passage UMC username or password.

Please contact the BOM Registrar for assistance.

I don't know the contact information for my District Superintendent.

The contact information for each District Office and District Superintendent can be found on the District Committees on Ministry page.

Where can my mentor find the yearly evaluation form?

All District Committee on Ministry forms can be found on the Additional Documentation - District Committee page.

I'm a new dCOM Registrar, where do I find our committee's forms?

All District Committee on Ministry forms can be found on the Additional Documentation - District Committee page.

Are scholarships available to help with the cost of college or seminary?

Yes. You can find more information about available scholarships, grants, and loans on this page. The IGRC also provides Ministerial Education Fund (MEF) grants to seminary students who are certified candidates for ordination. You can find that request form at this link. 

Are there any funds to help with the cost of Continuing Education Events?

Yes. You can apply for these funds by completing the appropriate form on this page. 

Are there any "special" things I should know as I begin to consider serving the church as a Local Pastor?

Yes. Please Click on this LINK and check them out.

Are there any "special" things I should know as I begin to consider serving the church as an Ordained Deacon?

Yes. Please Click on this LINK and check them out.