Ordination Process

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Introduction

As we continue our journey of faith, we recognize that God may be calling some to a deeper commitment through ordination. 

At Redeemed Calvary Church, we embrace the unique opportunity to minister both locally and globally through the online space. 

This discussion will guide us to reflect prayerfully on the questions surrounding ordination, considering God’s call, the responsibilities involved, and the blessings of serving Him through ordained ministry.

1. What is My Calling?

Have I spent enough time in prayer seeking God’s direction?

Do I feel a deep desire to serve others in a leadership capacity within Redeemed Calvary Church?

How has God been preparing me for this journey? What experiences, both positive and challenging, have shaped my path?

2. What Does Ordination Mean at Redeemed Calvary Church?

How do we define ordination in the context of our online church ministry?

What specific roles and responsibilities does ordination carry within our digital congregation?

What unique opportunities does ordained ministry provide for reaching the world with the Gospel through online platforms?

3. Am I Spiritually Prepared?

How is my relationship with God? Am I continually growing in my faith?

Do I reflect the character of Christ in my daily life, especially when interacting with others in an online setting?

How committed am I to the disciplines of prayer, study, and service?

4. What Are the Practical Requirements?

What training, education, or mentorship will help me be effective in ordained ministry?

How do the unique aspects of digital ministry shape the practical needs of an ordained leader?

What technical skills or tools will be necessary to carry out my responsibilities effectively in an online environment?

5. How Will Ordination Impact My Life?

How will my commitment to ordained ministry affect my family, work, and personal time?

Am I prepared for the time and spiritual commitment involved in serving God in this role?

How can I ensure I maintain a healthy balance between ministry, personal life, and spiritual growth?

6. What Support Systems Are Available?

Who are the spiritual leaders, mentors, and peers who can guide and support me throughout this process?

How can Redeemed Calvary Church provide the resources, training, and community I need as I step into this role?

How can I foster strong relationships with other ordained ministers within the church?

7. Am I Ready to Serve Humbly?

Do I understand that ordination is not a title, but a call to serve and care for others in humility?

Am I ready to lead with grace and humility, especially when challenges arise in online ministry?

How can I model Christ-like leadership in my ministry, both digitally and in everyday life?

Redeemed Calvary Church’s Vision for Online Ministry

At Redeemed Calvary Church, we are dedicated to using digital platforms to spread the Gospel and build a vibrant community of believers. 

Ordained ministers play a key role in leading, nurturing, and guiding our growing online family. 

As you consider ordination, reflect on the immense responsibility and privilege of being part of this global mission.

Encouragement and Next Steps

We encourage you to reflect on these questions and prayerfully seek God’s guidance.

 If you feel called to ordination or are unsure, don’t hesitate to reach out for support or mentorship. 

The leadership team at Redeemed Calvary Church is here to walk alongside you in this process. 

Remember, this decision is not just about ministry—it's about following God’s will for your life and being obedient to His calling.

Ordination Process for Redeemed Calvary Church

Application Submission

Candidates fill out an online application form that includes personal information, a testimony, and reasons for seeking ordination.

Initial Screening

Applications are reviewed for alignment with the church’s beliefs and values. A brief interview (via video call) is conducted to assess the candidate's commitment and understanding of their faith.

Theological Training

Candidates must complete a required online course covering key theological concepts, church history, and pastoral care.

 This includes readings, quizzes, and discussions. Redeemed Calvary Church utilizes Christian Leaders Institute as its official training school.

 The institute offers the same classes as a traditional seminary but online and at no cost, with only minimal fees for official credentials and certificates.

 There is a fee if candidates choose to attend Christian Leaders College. After completing all classes, candidates will be ordained by Christian Leaders Alliance. 

We also accept other seminary certifications if they align with our church’s beliefs and values. However, we do not accept ordination from any "ordination mills" that offer instant ordination.

Practical Experience

Candidates participate in a mentorship program, shadowing an ordained minister and gaining experience in conducting services, counseling, or community outreach. This experience will help strengthen their ministry.

Final Evaluation

Redeemed Calvary Church will conduct a second interview to discuss the candidate's experience, growth, and readiness for ordination. Feedback from mentors and peers will also be reviewed.

Ordination Ceremony

Each candidate for ordination is encouraged to have their local church perform the ordination ceremony. Redeemed Calvary Church aims to strengthen local churches rather than replace them. 

If there are no local churches available to perform the ceremony, we will hold a virtual ordination service where candidates are formally ordained, including a prayer and blessing from existing leadership.

Ongoing Support

Redeemed Calvary Church will provide resources for continued education and professional development, through Christian Leaders Institute.

 We strongly encourage participation in community discussions and events for fellowship and growth.

This process ensures that candidates are well-prepared to serve effectively in their ministry roles.

After ordination, all ministers must remain in good standing with the church to maintain their credentials.
 

At Redeemed Calvary Church, we recognize that God’s calling is not confined to physical buildings but extends into the digital world. Our ordination process is built on biblical principles and is designed to equip individuals to lead and serve in both virtual and physical ministry contexts.

Biblical Basis for Ordination

1. The Call to Ministry

Ordination is a response to God's divine calling, affirmed both by the church body and through the recognition of spiritual gifts. Just as the Apostle Paul sent leaders to the early church through letters and missionaries, today we are sending ministers into the online mission field to preach the gospel and shepherd God’s people through digital platforms.

Jeremiah 1:5 – "Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born I set you apart; I appointed you as a prophet to the nations."

John 15:16 – "You did not choose me, but I chose you and appointed you so that you might go and bear fruit—fruit that will last."

2. Laying on of Hands and Commissioning

Even in an online environment, we affirm the calling and gifting of individuals through the laying on of hands. While our interactions may be virtual, the spiritual realities of commissioning and empowering those called into ministry remain unchanged.

Acts 6:3-6 – The apostles laid hands on those set apart for ministry, ensuring they were full of the Spirit and wisdom.

1 Timothy 4:14 – "Do not neglect your gift, which was given you through prophecy when the body of elders laid their hands on you."

3. Qualifications for Ordination

As a church committed to digital ministry, we emphasize the biblical qualifications for leadership regardless of whether ministry is performed online or in person. Leadership in an online church requires individuals to exhibit the same biblical standards of character, integrity, and the ability to teach and shepherd God’s people.

1 Timothy 3:1-7 – A minister must be “above reproach, faithful to his spouse, self-controlled, hospitable, able to teach, not given to drunkenness, not violent but gentle.”

Titus 1:6-9 – Strong character, sound doctrine, and the ability to encourage, correct, and lead people digitally are essential for leadership in our online context.

4. The Purpose of Ordination

Ordination in an online church context is about servanthood and responsibility—to reach people globally, not just locally, and to equip others in their faith through both virtual and in-person ministry.

Ephesians 4:11-12 – "So Christ himself gave the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, the pastors and teachers, to equip his people for works of service, so that the body of Christ may be built up."

Matthew 28:19-20 – The Great Commission calls ministers to “go and make disciples of all nations”, with today’s “nations” including digital platforms and social media.

Redeemed Calvary Church’s Online Ordination Commitment

We ordain ministers who:

✔ Have a clear calling from God, particularly for online ministry.

✔ Meet the biblical qualifications of leadership in both virtual and in-person contexts.

✔ Demonstrate sound theology and a commitment to Scripture.

✔ Show evidence of spiritual maturity, servant leadership, and an ability to shepherd both online and in-person congregations.

✔ Are equipped to teach, disciple, and shepherd people across digital platforms.

Through ordination, we confirm, bless, and commission individuals into lifelong service, equipping them to effectively minister in an online and hybrid church environment for the glory of God and the growth of His Kingdom.