IV. The Synodical Ministerial Candidacy Committee
The Synodical Ministerial Candidacy Committee (SMCC), on behalf of the Christian Reformed Church (CRC) Synod, is the final partner in the process of candidacy preparation. Because the denomination has such a vital interest in the formation of ministers of the Word, Synod in 2004 established the SMCC to retain, direct, and enhance the denomination’s role in the process of equipping and forming its future leaders. Through the SMCC, the denomination is able to oversee the nurture and training of those preparing for ordained ministry through Church Order Articles 6, 7, and 8.
The SMCC was established in 2004 by the Synod of the CRC. The SMCC has been charged with the responsibility of fostering the development of pastoral leadership in the CRC, establishing standards for those preparing for ministry in the denomination, and overseeing the ministerial candidacy process. Specifically, the SMCC will serve in the following capacities:
Advisory: The SMCC will function in an advisory capacity to classes as they develop a Classis Ministerial Leadership Team (CMLT)
Consultation: The SMCC will be a consultation and advisory resource to classical CMLTs once established.
Equity in Financial Support: the SMCC, in consultation with CMLTs, will work to ensure greater equity in student financial assistance among the classes of the denomination.
Oversight of the Article 6 candidacy process and the Article 7 and 8 ordination process in the CRC.
Oversight of the denominational licensure process.
Recommend Candidacy to the Synod of the CRC.