Ministry Assessment Weekend
Just a few weeks ago, we held our annual assessment at Burr Oak State Park Lodge. Nestled in the Appalachian Mountains of southern Ohio, it is a beautiful drive through winding roads and small towns. The lodge, set deep in the woods and overlooking the lake, provides a peaceful, spectacular setting for an event like this.
We had thirteen clergy candidates (and spouses where applicable) and eight assessors gathered for an intensive weekend. But you may ask, “What is a ministry assessment weekend?” That’s a fair question.
Martin Luther is credited with championing the “Priesthood of Believers,” teaching that anyone who believes in Jesus and enters the Kingdom of God is called and gifted to serve the advancement of God’s Kingdom. Ministry is not just for clergy — every believer is part of Christ’s body and sent to do His work. We fully embrace this truth and encourage every believer to find a place of service.
Yet, we also recognize God calls some to vocational ministry. We used to call this “full-time ministry,” but like the Apostle Paul — a tentmaker — many are called to co-vocational ministry, serving while also working in secular roles.
In the Church of the Nazarene, those who sense a call to vocational ministry enter a process to help them discern and articulate that call. Some may feel called to preaching or pastoring, others to teaching or serving in support roles. A key part of this journey is enrolling in a validated course of study — whether at a university, seminary, or through an online degree or non-degree program — to ensure pastors are well trained in theology, polity, and ministry practice.
Another key step is the Ministry Assessment Weekend, a relatively new concept over the past 15 years. Rather than being a final hurdle before ordination, it is designed to be near the beginning of a candidate’s journey. It gives candidates the chance to understand themselves, clarify their call, and explore the realities of ministry. Some leave with a clearer sense of direction; others discern they are called to serve but not necessarily as ordained clergy.
Throughout the weekend, candidates learn about their personalities, work through team exercises and case studies, and build lasting relationships with peers and mentors. Most leave feeling affirmed, with new friendships and a deeper grasp of their call.
These weekends are life-giving for me. It energizes me to see candidates grow — in calling, confidence, and connection. The picture below shows our closing session, with Pastor Eddie leading worship as we shared Communion. It’s a beautiful picture of what God was doing during our assessment together.
I am blessed to serve as District Secretary and walk alongside those who have said yes to God’s call. My life is richer for it.
Kevin Angel
SCO District Secretary
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