Candidates

If you are interested in being ordained in the EPC, are already a Candidate under care of the Presbytery of the East as you discern your call to ministry, or a Pastoral Advisor to a candidate, all of the information you need can be found on this page. Please direct any questions to candidates.pote@gmail.com

Key GUIDES

These are the most important documents for POTE's ordination process. Any questions can be sent to the following address:

candidates.pote@gmail.com

Ordination manual

This manual is a succinct, step-by-step guide on the ordination process and expectations in the EPC's Presbytery of the East. It provides guidance for candidates coming under care, for currently ordained ministers transferring into the presbytery, and for Sessions who have endorsed candidates.

Ordination Manual

Practical Experience

POTE candidates are expected to fulfill practical ministry experience while under care and serving in their church.

Practical Experience Checklist

EXAM STUDY GUIDE

There are a number of theological and pastoral exams candidates for ordination are expected to take. This is the guide to the oral exams that are administered by POTE's Ministerial Committee.

POTE Committee Exam Guide

Additional Documents

All forms that are needed in this process should be sent to this address:

candidates.pote@gmail.com

Westminster Standards

The EPC holds to the Westminster Confession and Catechisms as containing the system of doctrine taught in the Scriptures. For the purpose of POTE ordination exams, the traditional language versions of the Westminster Standards are used. They can be found here, along with the form for registering any exceptions to them.

> Westminster Standards

Forms and Documents

There are a number of forms and documents needed throughout the candidacy and ordination process, including: a Session's Endorsement Form; an Application to Come Under Care; a Background Check Authorization; a Personal Information Form; Terms of Call; an Ethical Affirmation; and a Ministerial Obligation form. These can all be found here.

> Candidacy and Ordination Forms

Advisors and Pastors

The annual forms for advisors and pastors to report on their candidates can be found here, as well as the guide for what advising candidates should entail

> Advisors and Pastors