Section 4-B: Knowledge and Skills Specific to Authorized Ministry

1. A thorough knowledge of, and personal engagement with, the Bible.
2. Skill with methods of biblical interpretation, including the historic interpretive traditions of the church and contemporary methods, particularly those from historically underrepresented communities.
3. A deepening familiarity with the global history of the Christian churches through the ages and across cultures, including the newest Christian populations, and an understanding of the evolution of Christian communities in the United States.
4. A deepening familiarity with contemporary theological ways of thinking and with the rich and varied theological heritages, creeds, liturgies, and spiritual practices of the Christian churches.
7. The ability to analyze, evaluate, and integrate the biblical, historical, theological, and pastoral disciplines and practices in ways that contribute to fruitful and faithful Christian ministry.

5. An understanding of other religions and their foundational documents.
10. The ability to engage in respectful ecumenical and interfaith dialogue.
11. The ability to celebrate the unique features of local faith communities while encouraging them to be receptive to perspectives from the broader church and world.
12. The ability to appreciate, practice, and pass on traditions of faith while interpreting them in light of the context of a diverse and changing world.

6. The ability to articulate a theological understanding of authorized ministry, and to relate it to the practice of ministry.
8. The ability to understand the nature, use, and misuse of power and authority, and to exercise them appropriately and effectively in authorized ministry.
9. The ability to engage in community leadership that is collaborative and transformative.
18. The ability to read the contexts of a community’s ministry and creatively lead that community through change or conflict.
19. The ability to lead and encourage ministries of evangelism, service, stewardship and social transformation.
17. The ability to organize and implement programs, administer the operations of a complex organization, and initiate change when appropriate.
20. The ability to understand and participate in the financial administration of the church and other religious organizations.
15. The ability to preach the good news, lead worship and participate in the sacraments in a manner faithful to the broader Christian heritage and appropriate to the characteristics of a specific culture and setting.
14. The ability to discern God’s mission in the world and, in response, to lead ministries of compassion, nurture, justice, and proclamation that support fullness of life for all people.
16. The ability to provide effective and appropriate pastoral care and Christian education, and to equip and motivate others to share in these ministries.