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Methodists - transfer of orders from another methodist traditon
Expert: The Rev. William E. Olewiler - 10/28/2009
Question
Grace and peace to you in the name of our Lord and Savior. Please forgive the length, but I seeking clarity.
I am an ordained elder in another Methodist denomination. I have an MDiv (from a seminary recognized/approved by the UM Church). After much prayer and consideration, I have determined that I am being led to unite with the UM Church. I've met with the DS; found a UM church with which to affiliate and, very recently, met with the District Committee on Ordained Ministry.
How are paragraphs 346.1 and 347.2 of the Discipline to be read? Will my orders transfer to the UM Church only upon admission to a conference? Will I then be a "probationary member" of the conference?
Is there a provision for interim acceptance of my orders, upon affiliation with a UM church, and if so, how would this work? Would I be permitted to assist the UM pastor, and, if so, in what capacity(ies)?
OR do I simply become a "pew member" for one year, at which time I apply as a candidate for ordination, and present my credentials once again to the Committee on Ordained Ministry?
Because I am currently "local," and assigned to a particular congregation (as a staff member, not as pastor),it is possible that I would lose clergy status immediately upon affiliation with a UM church...in which case we really are talking about my starting from scratch,as a candidate, correct?
I look forward to your response.
Answer
Dear Dinah:
Your question is about a depth level of the Discipline that is beyond my expertise. I would not dare to attempt an answer.
It seems to me that the District Superintendent of your area, and the chair of the District Board of Ordained Ministry would be good folks to contact.
May all go well with you!
Peace and grace,
Bill Olewiler
U.M. pastor, retired, Florida
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