CREDENTIALING
A high and uncompromised view of Scripture is one of the most definitive traits of the Evangelical Free Church of America. It only follows that those who lead our churches and ministries would participate in a recognized process of affirmation of God's call upon their lives, and be held accountable to an objective standard of theological and moral excellence.
Who should seek licensure or ordination?
While requirements will vary from church to church, it is strongly urged that any pastoral staff member of an EFCA church who is engaged in ministry for 30 hours or more per week consider pursuit of a ministry credential. While it is legally possible for a local congregation to bestow a ministry credential upon an individual, there is an issue of integrity involved as we seek to be a consistent witness to outside observers. One example would be the IRS, who currently views the EFCA as a trustworthy and qualified credentialing agency. Another would be the United States military branches. An EFCA credential insures not only consistency in doctrinal position but suggests a spirit of teachable accountability to others. A local church credential, while accepted by certain governmental agencies, short-circuits the high level of doctrinal excellence and accountability we expect from our pastors.
What are the requirements for credentialing?
A candidate for licensure or ordination in the EFCA must:
- be a member in good standing of a local Evangelical Free Church;
- subscribe without mental reservation to the EFCA Statement of Faith, and agree to reaffirm that commitment every five year;
- be engaged in a fulltime ministry (30 hours per week or more) that qualifies for a ministerial credential;
- demonstrate a cooperative spirit with the purposes and policies of the EFCA, and a lifestyle consistent with biblical standards of Christian conduct;
- be examined and approved by a district ordination council or committee;
- complete the prescribed course on Free Church history, doctrine, and policy as directed by the EFCA.
Who do I contact?
Credentialing in the EFCA originates at the local level. Please contact Susan Eclov (gldcredentialing@aol.com) at Village Church of Lincolnshire (847-295-7707) for more information or to receive a credentialing package.
Where do I send my paperwork?
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Village Church or Lincolnshire
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Attn: Susan Eclov
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201 N. Riverwoods Rd.
- Lincolnshire, IL 60045
Important Note Regarding Divorce: In the event that a divorce and/or remarriage is part of either your background or that of your spouse, an entirely separate procedure must precede the credentialing process to determine eligibility. Before beginning any work toward an EFCA credential, please contact Brett Gleason at 847-840-6686 or brettcgleason@aol.com.
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