Ordination and Non-Denominational Ordination
Ordination is important to ministers, believers, and the secular community. Ordination is the process a religious body uses to set apart ministers for the work of ministry. Clergy credentialing and specifically ordinations are common among Catholic and Protestant groups as well as Non-Denominational religious groups. Wikipedia gives an interesting breakdown of ordination.
The highest recognition a minister can receive in terms of clergy credentialing is ordination. Some religious bodies also use commissioning and licensing in addition to ordination. As a result, ordination is a more sought-after recognition and normally requires more of the candidate.
Purpose of Ordination
Ordination, commissioning, and licensing enable a minister to perform various religious activities such as serving holy communion, performing weddings, conducting funerals, and baptisms. Yes, different religious groups have differing views of who can perform such sacerdotal services. Some teach that only ordained ministers can serve communion or perform baptisms, for example. Others hold that any believer can perform these services.
How do you read the scriptures? Do you believe anyone can administer the sacraments or be a wedding officiant?
Sometimes ordination is required by the secular community. This is the case with weddings in many places. Wedding Officiants must be Ordained, commissioned, or licensed in many counties across the United States.
Ordination can also be required for ministers to visit the sick in hospitals and those in nursing homes. Pastors are required to show their clergy credentials at some hospitals.
Ministers who desire to visit those in jail or prisons are typically required to prove they are ordained. Jail and prison ministry is a great way to reach those who need the transforming power of Jesus Christ. However, prisons must be cautious about who they let in to preach and teach. Thus, they ask for ordination papers.
Some ministers also help through pastoral counseling and care to their communities. Most states require a state license for compensation for counseling. Most states also have exemptions for ordained ministers who provide pastoral counseling as part of their religious duties.
Non-Denominational Ordination
There are many such reasons ordination is important. Non-Denominational groups are a little less formal than other Catholic or Protestant groups. Additionally, some denominations do not allow women to be ordained, but many non-denominational groups ordain women. As with any religious doctrine, there are differences between denominations.
Experience Ministries is a non-denominational religious organization that provides ordination and commissioning. We have a great training process and support system. Check out our article “3 Things You Should Know About Ordination.” You can also get your copy of the Ordination Guide. This guide gives information about our ordination process, requirements, and cost.
Request Your Copy Of The Ordination Guide
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