A discerning and preparatory period of time and the process by which those wishing to serve as licensed local pastors, deacons or elders apply, prepare and are evaluated by their annual conference to serve on behalf of The United Methodist Church (310-314).
Glossary of Candidacy Terms
The list below is of terms that candidates for ordained ministry and those who work with them through the candidacy and provisional process should be familiar with. The list is not all-inclusive. More details and in-depth information can be found in The 2012 Book of Discipline. Where appropriate, paragraph numbers are cited.
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Candidacy
Candidate
A person who is seeking recommendation or is enrolled in the candidacy process and wishes to serve as a licensed local pastor, deacon, or elder.
Licensed Local Pastor
Someone who is not ordained as an elder or deacon but is appointed to preach, conduct worship and perform the duties of a pastor in a particular setting. In order to meet the requirements, a person must complete licensing school and receive an appointment to serve. Licensed local pastors must attend the Course of Study each year and meet with the dCOM annually for approval and eligibility for continued licensing. Licensed local pastors are not required to earn a Master's of Divinity or to itinerate, are not guaranteed an appointment and usually serve smaller congregations (315ff.).
Polity
Refers to the rules and traditions of the UMC. It includes the Book of Discipline, history, practices, and beliefs of the denomination.