The United Church of Christ (UCC) celebrates that through the act of baptism, God calls all people to a vocation of love and service. The particulars of each person’s call and ministry vary with time, place, talents, experience, personal situation and responsibilities, and, importantly, the needs of the world.

The Church also recognizes a specific need for representative servant leaders “to equip the saints for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ” (Ephesians 4:12). The UCC affirms God’s call to some individuals to be such leaders who help the Church to be what God intends it to be. Those called to serve and lead on behalf of the UCC and the Church Universal commit and engage in process of discernment, learning, growth, and formation. 

If you or someone in your congregation is discerning a call to ministry in the UCC, read below for more information on the various processes towards UCC Ministerial Authorization and Standing.