Calling Forth New Ministers - Central/Southern Illinois Synod

Where do pastors come from? While a few people ask this question, most of us assume that they come from…somewhere else. Not here. The truth is that pastors come from all kinds of congregations – and even yours! Has your congregation produced any pastors in its history? If not, why is that? How might that change?

Since the beginning of the Church, God has called forth leaders to proclaim the good news of Christ. One of the responsibilities of congregations (the council in particular) is to seek out and encourage those who may be gifted for service in Christ’s Church (see your congregation’s constitution, C12.04.j).

We know that pastors and deacons (also referred to as “rostered ministers”) are more likely to serve long term in the geographic area from which they come. We would like to see congregations of the Central/Southern Illinois Synod become a greater source of pastors, deacons, and synod-authorized ministers to serve our synod congregations. Below are some ideas to assist your congregation in identifying and raising up new ministers. More resources will be forthcoming.

If you are sensing a call to ministry, discover the next steps.

Celebrate a “Gifted for Ministry” Sunday

Calling forth new ministers should be an on-going endeavor in the life of a congregation. You may use these resources at any time! There are three bulletin inserts and three prayers petitions that could be used over a three-week period.