SESSION ENDORSEMENT FORM
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Primary attention should be given at this time to evaluating the applicant's natural gifts, quality
of commitment, strength of motivation, and potential for growth. Each of these issues should be
pursued at greater depth on a continuing basis.
The Session should note the Committee on Preparation for Ministry must rely upon the Session,
the Moderator, and the Applicant to exercise good judgment in discerning whether this
individual seems to be called by God to consider service as a Authorized Lay Preacher or
Commissioned Lay Pastor.
Name of Applicant:
Please respond candidly to the following questions.
Adjust or use extra space as needed.
1. What personal qualities are evidence of a vital faith in God through Jesus Christ and the Holy
Spirit?
2. How is that faith currently being expressed through the individual's participation in the
worship, ministry and mission of this congregation?
3. What evidence do you see of a sense of call?
4. What actual and potential talents for ministry as a Authorized Lay Preacher/Commissioned
Lay Pastor are evident in this individual?
5. Describe a few situations in the life of your church in which the applicant has demonstrated
leadership capacity.
6. How would you rate the applicant's physical health/stamina, emotional well-being, and
maturity?
7. Service as an Authorized Lay Preacher or
Commissioned Lay Pastor requires great maturity of
character, self-discipline, reliability, and commitment to the polity of the PC(USA). Please
comment upon the applicant's attributes in these areas.
8. Describe the applicant's capacities for effective public speaking and demonstration of pastoral
care.
9. The following qualities are especially important in Authorized Lay Preachers/Commissioned
Lay Pastor. Please check all which you think are demonstrated by this applicant in the life of
your church:
Ability to speak publicly, with a clear voice and in good English
A demonstrated basic knowledge of the content of Scripture
Reliability
Leader in the church
Compassion
Skills in personal relationships
Well-developed listening skills
Ability to relate to various age groups
Able to keep confidentiality
10. Describe any reservations you might have in endorsing this candidate. (Note: a reservation
does not disqualify an individual or indicate they are unsuitable for service. The CPM, however,
must rely upon your honest and candid evaluation.)
Check one:
The Session of the
Church
DOES endorse this application for admission to the Authorized Lay
Preacher/Commissioned Lay Pastor Training Program.
DOES NOT endorse this application for admission to the Authorized Lay
Preacher/Commissioned Lay Pastor Training Program.
DOES endorse,
WITH RESERVATIONS, this application for admission to the Authorized
Lay Preacher/Commissioned Lay Pastor Training Program (List specific qualifications
here).
Signature of Clerk of Session
Date
Signature of Clerk of Session
Date
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