Instructions for Documents to be Gathered (Art. 8)

A Financial Plan

On a separate piece of paper, please indicate the following:

  • The anticipated living costs for the individual (and his or her family) during their affiliation period.
  • The anticipated sources of income throughout the affiliation period, including prior savings, stated supply income, spousal income, etc.

Note: The purpose of providing this is so the CMLT and the Candidacy Committee can be assured that the prospective pastor is being financially cared for during this preparation period. Any supporting documents (church budgets, descriptions of insurance plans, etc) that will demonstrate this care will be appreciated.

Copy of Ordination

Please provide photo-copies of whatever ordination certificates the pastor possesses. These will prove to authenticate their ordination as they work through the affiliation process with the Christian Reformed Church. If the CMLT has any questions regarding these documents, they are encouraged to discuss their questions with the Director of Candidacy and the Candidacy Committee.

Copy of Academic Degrees and Diplomas

These documents will provide further authentication of the pastor’s credentials as they work through our affiliation process. Photo-copies of diplomas, degree certificates, and academic transcripts are acceptable – it is not necessary to get notarized documents.

Statement of Psychological Fitness for Ministry

The Christian Reformed Church requires of all ministry candidates (Articles 6,7, and 8) an interview by a certified psychological professional. The CMLT will consult with the Candidacy Committee to identify an appropriate professional in the region where the applicant lives. The payment for this interview will be negotiated between the applicant, the calling congregation, and the CMLT. A brief, confidential report from the certified professional will be provided to the CMLT and the Candidacy Committee for use in the evaluation process. For a more complete description of the nature of the psychological testing required go to Psychological Evaluation.

Background Check

The Christian Reformed Church requires a background check on each applicant for ministry. Such a background check can be obtained through an insurance company contracted by one of the churches in the classis of the applicant. If necessary, the service used by Calvin Theological Seminary can be used. The CMLT should consult with the Director of Candidacy if help is needed with this item.