If God is calling you to become a pastor, but you do not see seminary as a reality for you, then you may want to consider becoming a licensed local pastor. We welcome you to the start of a new faith journey.
Find out more about the educational path to becoming a licensed local pastor.
A local pastor answers God's call to serve the mission of Jesus Christ through serving a local congregation in The United Methodist Church. When appointed, the local pastor performs the usual duties of a pastor, including preaching and teaching; leading in worship and liturgy; receiving new members; performing the sacraments of baptism and Holy Communion; and the services of marriage (where state laws allow), burial and confirmation. The local pastor's authority is only within the appointment setting and does not extend beyond it. The local pastor is not ordained, and serves under the authority of a license for pastoral ministry after completing the steps outlined below and meeting any annual conference requirements.
INFORMATION MISSING -- STEPS FOR LICENSED LOCAL PASTORS -- Paragraph 315??