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TO: Candidates for Provisional Membership - 2013FROM: Jane Newman Brooks, Director of Ministerial Services

RE: Materials for Preparation for Provisional Membership

Congratulations on being recommended by your District Committee on Ordained Ministry for Provisional Membership in the North Georgia Annual Conference! The Conference Board of Ordained Ministry will interview candidates for Provisional Membership at Simpsonwood Conference and Retreat Center November 11-12, 2013. You will want to reserve all of that time for this important purpose. As we get closer to the interviews, we will let you know which one of those days you will need to be at Simpsonwood.

We are attaching the materials you will need to prepare for your meeting with the Board. Please follow instructions carefully, and be sure your file is complete and on time. This year we are setting up a reservation/appointment schedule for you to bring in your materials. If you go to the conference website (www.ngumc.org) and click on REGISTRATIONS, you can click on RESERVATION FOR PROVISIONAL CANDIDATES TO DROP-OFF MATERIAL. The deadline to return your materials is Tuesday, September 10, 2013.

The Board has a policy that no one with an incomplete file will be considered. All papers, reports, forms, CDs and DVDs are due in the Office of Ministerial Services no later than noon on Tuesday, September 10, 2013 - - Nothing will be accepted after the deadline time.

Please use the enclosed checklist to ensure that all materials are in your file. If you have questions about any of this, Barbara Waits in our office (678-533-1369) should be able to assist you. I pray for God’s guidance for you as you seek to respond to Christ’s call upon your life.

Confirm receipt of these materials by e-mail ([email protected]) or telephone (678-533-1369).

mailto:[email protected]

http://www.ngumc.org/

WHAT CAN I EXPECT TO HAPPEN AT THE INTERVIEWS?

Welcome to the North Georgia Conference Board of Ordained Ministry (BOM) interviews! We celebrate what God is doing in your lives and look forward to working with you in ministry in the years to come.

Relationship to Board of Ordained Ministry (BOM)The Church, through the Board of Ordained Ministry provides support for persons responding to God’s

call to the full time vocation of ministry through the discernment process of candidacy, mentoring, financial support with Ministerial Education Funds while in seminary or Course of Study, and Provisional Residency groups for Provisional Members.

The Board is also charged with responsibility for upholding the standards and requirements for ordained ministry in the United Methodist Church by confirming that required academic course work is completed, and written answers and verbal responses to the questions for provisional membership and ordination are answered in ways that demonstrate competency and authentic calling to ordained ministry.

Requirements for Commissioning and OrdinationSuccessful candidates for Provisional Membership must demonstrate “fitness and readiness” for the

vocation of ordained ministry in the areas of Called and Disciplined Life, Practice of Ministry and Theology and Doctrine, ready and able for appointment in a local church or other ministry setting.

Successful candidates for Full Connection and Ordination must demonstrate “effectiveness” in their practice of ministry, called and disciplined life and theology and doctrine. This effectiveness is evaluated through the supervision of one’s district superintendent, annual ministry reviews, provisional residency group participation, the written ordination exam and the interviews.

Structure of the Board of Ordained MinistryThe North GA BOM is composed of sixty-five clergy and laity divided into Interview Teams A, B,

and C. Candidates are assigned to one of those teams. The members of each team are divided into three interview committees: “The Called and Disciplined Life,” “Theology and Doctrine,” and “The Practice of Ministry.”

The Interview Process and PresentersAbout three weeks before the Interview Retreat, candidates are notified of the time and day of their

interviews. Since this is an interview, no spouses, family, or friends may attend. Meals will be provided for the time you are present during the interviews.

At the same time you are notified of your interview date and time, you will be assigned a “presenter” from the BOM. Candidates contact their presenters right away (at least two weeks before the interview) to schedule a time to meet and discuss the materials that have been submitted. The presenter will also meet his or her candidate on the day of the interview and escort and introduce the candidate to each of the interview committees. Candidates can expect their presenters to have reviewed all materials and to be available for a pre-interview meeting at a mutually convenient time for candidate and presenter. If candidates experience difficulty in accessing presenters, please notify the Office of Ministerial Services immediately. Presenters are not advocates for their candidates but are thoroughly familiar with all material submitted by the candidate.

Candidates are expected to have submitted their best written work and to be prepared to present themselves effectively in the interview. Written work is to be grounded in United Methodist theology, reflecting the candidate’s deepest understanding of the questions asked. Please proof carefully for correct spelling and grammar. Work will be evaluated accordingly.

It is permissible to use a proof reader and to request clergy colleagues and BOM members to review paperwork for content. BOM members who choose to assist candidates may serve in an advisory role; however, they shall not write, rewrite, or make substantive changes to candidates’ work. The opinions and suggestions of individual BOM members neither reflect nor predict the BOM’s action.

Please dress comfortably but professionally. Bring a personal copy of the materials submitted to the BOM for reference while interviewing.

The interview day begins as the candidates and BOM members gather for a time of welcome and brief instruction about the schedule of the day, followed by introduction of candidates, devotional and prayer. This happens once in the morning for those candidates with morning interview slots and once in the afternoon for candidates with afternoon interview slots. The interviews follow with each candidate circulating through the three interview committees of the Interview Team to which each is assigned. Candidates will spend twenty-five minutes talking with each of the three committees, with a five-minute break between interviews.

Following the interviews, candidates are free to leave. The Board convenes after supper to receive and discuss the recommendations of the Interview Teams and to make a decision about each candidate’s status. Candidates who choose to do so may return to Simpsonwood at 7pm to receive the decision of the Board personally. Or, candidates may choose to be notified by a phone call from the Presenter that evening, immediately following the Board’s decision. Please make sure your Presenter has your best phone number and that you are available between 7:00 pm and 10:00 pm.

The decision of the BOM regarding each candidate is final. If the decision of the BOM for a provisional candidate is denial, it is final, and decisions are not always predictable. For this reason, it is strongly suggested that candidates, family, friends, co-workers, church members wait until after the retreat before making plans or issuing invitations to attend the service of commissioning and ordination at Annual Conference.

Location of Interviews and Overnight LodgingThe interviews will be at Simpsonwood Retreat Center Candidates needing or desiring to stay

overnight at Simpsonwood may do so at BOM expense, but the candidate must complete and submit the lodging reservation form enclosed in the candidate’s packet.

Categories of Responses from the Board of Ordained MinistryThere are three categories of responses that you can expect at the end of the day: Eligible, Deferred due to deficiencies, and Denial (for provisional candidates) or Discontinued (for full connection candidates).

A. Eligible : Full Connection Candidates who have met all the requirements, and passed all three committees are recommended for ordination and election into full connection. Provisional candidates who have met all requirements and passed all three committees are eligible to be commissioned after they have received an appointment to a place of service by the Bishop and the Cabinet.

B. Deferred Due to Deficiencies : Each year, the Board has to say, “Not yet,” to some candidates. Candidates who are deferred because of deficiencies receive detailed explanations of where they could have done better and how they can improve before being interviewed again. If this is part of your evaluation, it is important that you take the instructions seriously.

C. Denial or Discontinuance : Occasionally the BOM has to say to a candidate, “We believe you are called to ministry, but not ministry as a deacon or elder in the United Methodist Church.” This decision is always made prayerfully and thoughtfully with the clear understanding that as baptized children of God, all are called and equipped to serve in a variety of ways as clergy and laity. In the circumstance of discontinuance or denial, candidates can expect some follow up assistance and care from the Church through the BOM, the District Superintendent and the local church.

God’s blessings upon you as you prepare for the interviews. Please feel free to contact Jane Brooks at 678-533-1369 [email protected], or Glenn Ethridge (404) 636-7558, [email protected], if you have any concerns or questions. We look forward to serving with you as colleagues in ministry.

God’s Grace and Peace,



Jane Newman Brooks Glenn EthridgeDirector of Ministerial Services Chairperson, Board of Ordained Ministry

GENERAL INSTRUCTIONS FORCANDIDATES FOR PROVISIONAL MEMBERSHIP

North Georgia Annual Conference – 2013

1. Prepare one (1) complete copy of the written materials (Sections A, B, and C). Separate the material into sections and staple each copy of each section together. Be sure your name is on all papers.

2. Prepare one (1) CD which will contain all of your written/submitted materials (Sections A, B, and C, including Autobiographical Statement). MATERIALS MUST BE IN WORD FORMAT ONLY. Be sure your name is written on the CD. Each section (Sections A, B, and C) should be a separate folder. Each folder should contain all questions and answers, etc. for that section. All questions and answers should be identified as to what number question and answer.

EXAMPLE: Folder for Theology & Doctrine: Items included within this folder are: questions and answers (as one document, not as a separate document for each question/answer)

Folder for Practice of Ministry: Items included within this folder are: Bible Study, Sermon manuscript, Bulletin, Background Sheet

Folder for Called & Disciplined Life: Items included within this folder are: Biographical Statement, questions and answers

3. Submit a sermon – you have 2 options. Or if pursuing the deacon track chose the deacon option alternative.

(a) Submit ten ( 10 ) DVD copies of your sermon. Be sure your name is on all disk copies. (Attach copy of Bulletin with each DVD). See Sermon Instructions under Section B: Practice of Ministry.

(b) Submit sermon video via conference system of Pathways. See Sermon Instructions under Section B: Practice of Ministry.

(c) If pursuing the deacon track chose the deacon option alternative, See Special Instructions For Deacon Candidates under Section B: Practice of Ministry.

4. Prepare three (3) copies of the items on the checklist marked with a “►” .

5. Send or bring your complete package of written material, CD and DVDs to the Office of Ministerial Services and Spiritual Formation:

Rev Jane Newman BrooksUnited Methodist Center4511 Jones Bridge CircleNorcross, GA 30092

6. All work must be completed and in the Office of Ministerial Services no later than noon, Tuesday, September 10, 2013. Candidates whose material has not been received by then will not be considered this year for Provisional membership.

7. A Checklist is provided to help you track your progress and make sure your package of materials is complete.

PROVISIONAL CANDIDATE

CHECKLIST

Section A: THEOLOGY AND DOCTRINE (needs to be on CD) _____Responses to questions on theology and doctrine

Section B: PRACTICE OF MINISTRY (needs to be on CD)*_____Background information sheet for sermon*_____ Sermon (or deacon alternative if applicable) (name written on each page)

_____________ (10 DVDs with name on each)_____________ (Pathways Video) Viewed = _________________

*_____Manuscript or transcript of sermon _____Plan for Bible study

**_____ Deacon Track - See Special Instructions For Deacon Candidates

Section C: CALLED AND DISCIPLINED LIFE _____Responses to questions on Called and Disciplined Life (needs to be on CD)

_____Current Autobiographical statement (needs to be on CD) ►_____Current Biographical information form (3 copies) ►+ _____Application Authorization & Consent for Release & Disclosure (3 copies) ►+ _____Background Check (3 copies) ►+ _____Current Background Affidavit (must be notarized) (1 notarized original plus 2 copies of original) ►+ _____Current Medical Report (3 copies) ►+ _____Psychological evaluation (to be sent to Registrar by Psychologist or Dist. Supt.) (3 copies)

(cannot be more than 4 years old) ►_____Current Credit report with FICO Credit Score (3 copies) ►+ _____Questions for Determining U.S. Work Authorization (3 copies) ►_____ Plagiarism Statement (3 copies)

Section D: ►_____Official transcripts

► _____College (3 sealed originals of each)► _____Seminary (3 sealed originals of each)► _____Homiletics course (as required by North Georgia Conference) (required for

elder track candidates only) ►_____Seminary recommendation (3 copies) ►_____Letters of reference (3 copies)

+ If these items are already in district committee files, have your District Superintendent send the originals and copies to the Office of Ministerial Services by the deadline.

* Sermon not required of all persons on Deacon track. (See Special Deacon Instructions). Bible study is required for all candidates.

** Required for Deacon track only ► Need three (3) copies of each

Name of Candidate _______________________________ Date Submitted as Complete___________

Received by: _____________________________________ Date _______________________________ (This checklist must be signed by person who accepted/received materials)

2013

EXAMINATION FOR PROVISIONAL MEMBERSHIPNORTH GEORGIA ANNUAL CONFERENCE - 2013

SECTION A: THEOLOGY AND DOCTRINE

INSTRUCTIONS – PLEASE READ CAREFULLY: 1. The Board expects substantive answers to the questions -- a brief paragraph is not sufficient!

Copy each question above each answer Type your name in the upper left corner of each page 300-1000 words/ one to four pages per answer Double-spaced with standard margins 12 point font, one side of paper.

2. The essay should demonstrate a basic understanding of the theological concept(s) the question addresses and should lead to further discussion and clarification in the interview group. Where appropriate, use examples from your ministry, life experience, or work settings to illustrate how your theology is integrated into your work.

3. Provide one (1) hard copy of all your paperwork and 3 copies where indicated on the checklist. All your paperwork needs to be on your CD per the general instructions

4. All work must be completed and in the Office of Ministerial Services and Spiritual Formation (4511 Jones Bridge Circle, Norcross, GA 30092) no later than Tuesday, September 10, 2013 by noon.

QUESTIONS1. Describe your personal experience of God and the understanding of God you derive from Biblical, theological, and historical sources.

2. What is your understanding of evil as it exists in the world?

3. What is your understanding of humanity, and the human need for divine grace?

4. How do you interpret the statement, “Jesus Christ Is Lord”?

5. What is your conception of the activity of the Holy Spirit in personal faith, in the community of believers, and in responsible living in the world?

6. What is your understanding of the Kingdom of God, the Resurrection, and eternal life?

7. How do you intend to affirm, teach and apply Part II of the Discipline (Doctrinal Standards and our Theological Task) in your work in the ministry to which you have been called?

8. The United Methodist Church holds that the living core of the Christian faith was revealed in Scripture, illumined by tradition, vivified in personal experience, and confirmed by reason. What is your understanding of this theological position of the Church?

9. Describe the nature and mission of the Church. What are its primary tasks today?

10. Discuss your understanding of the primary characteristics of United Methodist polity?

11. Explain the role and significance of the sacraments in the ministry to which you have been called. (This question/answer can be cut and pasted to question 14 on page 25)

EXAMINATION FOR PROVISIONAL MEMBERSHIPNORTH GEORGIA ANNUAL CONFERENCE - 2013

SECTION B: PRACTICE OF MINISTRY

INSTRUCTIONS – PLEASE READ CAREFULLY:

1. Read all directions carefully before you begin your work.

2. All written materials should be printed, by computer, standard margins, using 12 point font, using only one side of the paper.

3. Submit one (1) hard copy of all written materials.

4. Submit sermon utilizing either option (a) or option (b).

(a) Submit ten (10) DVD copies of sermon with a copy of the Bulletin attached to each DVD.Make sure you have viewed ALL of the DVD copies of sermon to ensure that the completeservice can be heard and seen.

(b) Submit video via the conference system of Pathways. Ten (10) copies of the Bulletin should be enclosed with your manuscript or transcript of your sermon. Make sure you have viewed your video on Pathways to assure you can see and hear the complete video.

4. All work must be completed and in the Office of Ministerial Services (4511 Jones Bridge Circle, Norcross, GA 30092) no later than Tuesday, September 10, 2013 at noon.

SERMON INSTRUCTIONS

(Required of all on elder track and for all who expect to have preaching responsibilities)

1. Submit a manuscript or transcript (one (1) copy) of a sermon you have recently preached. Attach the provided "Background Information Sheet" to the hard copy of your written sermon and be sure it is also included on your CD. If a church bulletin or order of service was used, attach one copy to your manuscript and attach one copy to each of the ten DVDs submitted. Be sure your name is on all papers, CD and DVDs.

2. Video the sermon during a worship service with a congregation - include the entire service from the beginning of the worship order to the sending forth. . The video should show a congregation in attendance, as well as the person who is conducting the service.

You have the option of submitting your video in one of two ways:

(a) You can submit your video on a DVD. It must be able to be viewed on both a computer and a DVR/TV. It is important that you provide a high quality DVD so that the committee can clearly hear the sermon and the congregation’s response in a live setting. Provide ten (10) copies of the DVD. Mark each copy with your name and the date.

(b) You can submit your video via the conference system of Pathways. You need to call Ministerial Services to obtain a password to get into Pathways (See Instructions to Upload Sermon Video Into Pathways). Your video must be formatted in either Mp4 or M4v. The video should be sized at: height - 320 px by width - 470 px. Please do not create a high definition video. Large files require a long time to upload. Final size for an hour long should be no more than 150 mb. If you upload to Pathways, you must upload the video no later than noon, September 2nd, and notify Ministerial Services. Your package will not be complete until you have received notification from Ministerial Services that your video has been downloaded and observed.

3. The sermon's Scriptural text will come from the current year's lectionary passage text – June 2, 2013 to September 1, 2013; see Revised Common Lectionary – 2013 for passage listings. The sermon should be new and communicate the good news that God is expressing through this text to your listeners today.

4. The sermon will be evaluated on content and delivery. Attention will be paid to Scriptural exegesis, theological development, logical flow of ideas, vivid illustrations, voice quality, eye contact, animation, grammar, and more. The sermon should reflect your best effort and the style you normally use and are comfortable with.

INSTRUCTIONS TO UPLOAD SERMON VIDEO INTO PATHWAYS

Record video on either Mp4 or M4v format and must be encoded as H.264 for video and AAC for audio. The video should be sized at: height - 320 px by width - 470 px. Please do not create a high definition video. Large files require a long time to upload. Final size for an hour long should be no more than 150 mb.

Login to: https://pathwaystoministry.com

Username: enter your <preferredname.lastname>

Password: enter the password given to you by Ministerial Services

Conference: North Georgia

Click on your name at the top left side of the page.

Click on the Track that says: Video File

Scroll down to Files and click on Browse to find and select your video

Click on Open to upload your Video File (DO NOT UPLOAD USING DIAL UP)

Depending on your internet connection this may take some time to upload, do not try to do anything else on your computer while this is uploading as you will loose the connection and have to start again.

https://pathwaystoministry.com/

REVISED COMMON LECTIONARY – 2013

Season after PentecostYear C

First* reading and Psalm

Alternate* First reading and Psalm

Second reading Gospel

Proper 4 (9)Second Sunday after PentecostJune 2, 2013ART -- PRAYER

1 Kings 18:20-21, (22-29), 30-39

Psalm 96

1 Kings 8:22-23, 41-43

Psalm 96:1-9

Galatians 1:1-12

Luke 7:1-10

Proper 5 (10)Third Sunday after PentecostJune 9, 2013ART -- PRAYER

1 Kings 17:8-16, (17-24)

Psalm 146

1 Kings 17:17-24

Psalm 30

Galatians 1:11-24

Luke 7:11-17

Proper 6 (11)Fourth Sunday after PentecostJune 16, 2013ART -- PRAYER

1 Kings 21:1-10, (11-14), 15-21a

Psalm 5:1-8

2 Samuel 11:26-12:10, 13-15

Psalm 32

Galatians 2:15-21

Luke 7:36-8:3

Proper 7 (12)Fifth Sunday after PentecostJune 23, 2013ART -- PRAYER

1 Kings 19:1-4, (5-7), 8-15a

Psalm 42 and 43

Isaiah 65:1-9

Psalm 22:19-28

Galatians 3:23-29

Luke 8:26-39

Proper 8 (13)Sixth Sunday after PentecostJune 30, 2013ART -- PRAYER

2 Kings 2:1-2, 6-14

Psalm 77:1-2, 11-20

1 Kings 19:15-16, 19-21

Psalm 16

Galatians 5:1, 13-25

Luke 9:51-62

Proper 9 (14)Seventh Sunday after Pentecost

2 Kings 5:1-14

Psalm 30

Isaiah 66:10-14

Psalm 66:1-9

Galatians 6:(1-6), 7-16

Luke 10:1-11, 16-20

http://lectionary.library.vanderbilt.edu/texts.php?id=269




















http://lectionary.library.vanderbilt.edu/prayers.php?id=268

http://diglib.library.vanderbilt.edu/act-processquery.pl?code=ACT&SortOrder=Title&LectionaryLink=CProp08























































July 7, 2013ART -- PRAYER

Proper 10 (15)Eighth Sunday after PentecostJuly 14, 2013ART -- PRAYER

Amos 7:7-17

Psalm 82

Deuteronomy 30:9-14

Psalm 25:1-10

Colossians 1:1-14

Luke 10:25-37

Proper 11 (16)Ninth Sunday after PentecostJuly 21, 2013ART -- PRAYER

Amos 8:1-12

Psalm 52

Genesis 18:1-10a

Psalm 15

Colossians 1:15-28

Luke 10:38-42

Proper 12 (17)Tenth Sunday after PentecostJuly 28, 2013ART -- PRAYER

Hosea 1:2-10

Psalm 85

Genesis 18:20-32

Psalm 138

Colossians 2:6-15, (16-19)

Luke 11:1-13

Proper 13 (18)Eleventh Sunday after PentecostAugust 4, 2013ART -- PRAYER

Hosea 11:1-11

Psalm 107:1-9, 43

Ecclesiastes 1:2, 12-14; 2:18-23

Psalm 49:1-12

Colossians 3:1-11

Luke 12:13-21

Proper 14 (19)Twelfth Sunday after PentecostAugust 11, 2013ART -- PRAYER

Isaiah 1:1, 10-20

Psalm 50:1-8, 22-23

Genesis 15:1-6

Psalm 33:12-22

Hebrews 11:1-3, 8-16

Luke 12:32-40

Proper 15 (20)Thirteenth Sunday after PentecostAugust 18, 2013ART -- PRAYER

Isaiah 5:1-7

Psalm 80:1-2, 8-19

Jeremiah 23:23-29

Psalm 82

Hebrews 11:29-12:2

Luke 12:49-56

Proper 16 (21) Jeremiah 1:4-10 Isaiah 58:9b-14 Hebrews 12:18- Luke 13:10-




















































































Fourteenth Sunday after PentecostAugust 25, 2013ART -- PRAYER

Psalm 71:1-6 Psalm 103:1-829 17

Proper 17 (22)Fifteenth Sunday after PentecostSeptember 1, 2013ART -- PRAYER

Jeremiah 2:4-13

Psalm 81:1, 10-16

Sirach 10:12-18orProverbs 25:6-7

Psalm 112

Hebrews 13:1-8, 15-16

Luke 14:1, 7-14

Proper 4 (9)Second Sunday after PentecostJune 2, 2013ART -- PRAYER

1 Kings 18:20-21, (22-29), 30-39

Psalm 96

1 Kings 8:22-23, 41-43

Psalm 96:1-9

Galatians 1:1-12

Luke 7:1-10

































SPECIAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR DEACON CANDIDATES

( P l e a s e r e a d c a r e f u l l y )

(A) AS A DEACON CANDIDATE YOU WILL NEED TO COMPLETE EITHER NUMBER 1 OR NUMBER 2 IN THIS SECTION (A)

1. If you expect to take any preaching responsibilities, submit a sermon using the same instructions as the elder candidates. (See first page of Section B)

2. Submit a video at least thirty (30) minutes in length showing how you Proclaim the Word within the context of your ministry (your practice of ministry in action).

(a) And submit a three-five (3-5) page paper explaining the video event (not staged re-enactment) giving an overview of your entire ministry, this should be included in your written material and on your CD.

You have the option of submitting your video in one of two ways:

(a) You can submit your video on a DVD. It must be able to be viewed on both a computer and a DVR/TV. It is important that you provide a high quality DVD so that the committee can clearly hear the sermon and the congregation’s response in a live setting. Provide ten (10) copies of the DVD. Mark each copy with your name and the date.

(b) You can submit your video via the conference system of Pathways. You need to call Ministerial Services to obtain a password to get into Pathways (See Instructions to Upload Sermon Video Into Pathways). Your video must be formatted in either Mp4 or M4v. The video should be sized at: height - 320 px by width - 470 px. Please do not create a high definition video. Large files require a long time to upload. Final size for an hour long should be no more than 150 mb. If you upload to Pathways, you must upload the video no later than noon, September 4th, and notify Ministerial Services. Your package will not be complete until you have received notification from Ministerial Services that your video has been downloaded and observed.

(B) ALL DEACON CANDIDATES MUST COMPLETE THE QUESTIONS IN THIS SECTION (B)

1. Respond in depth (using specific examples from your own ministry) to these questions:

a. What is your understanding of your call to servant ministry as expressed in the Deacon Connection?

b. Describe the connection between work and worship in the ministry of the deacon.

c. What is your understanding of the deacon's appointment by a bishop according to the provisions of the 2012 Book of Discipline?

d. What is the meaning of ordination in the context of the general ministry of the church?

e. Describe in what ways you will, as a deacon, lead and support the congregation in its servant ministry and equip all baptized Christians for their ministry?

f. In what ways will you, as a deacon, seek to express the ministry of compassion and justice as you assist laypersons in claiming their own ministry?

g. In what ways will you as a deacon help to connect the needs of the world and the gifts of the congregation?

h. What are the rights and responsibilities of conference membership in full connection?

Guideline for evaluating the Deacon Option

Deacon Option: (Submit 10 copies of a DVD or upload a video to Pathways to Ministry at least 30 minutes in length showing how you “Proclaim the Word” within the context of your ministry. A three to five page paper explaining the video event (not a staged re-enactment) and giving an overview of your entire ministry should be included in your written material and on your CD. )

Overall impression of submitted video

Presentation appropriateness for context of ministry

Scriptural and theological integrity

How does the presentation communicate the Gospel of Jesus Christ?

Logical flow of ideas

Life Application

Relationship with participants

Involvement of participants

Diction: volume, clarity, mannerisms (“you know”, “uh”, “um”, etc)

Eye contact

Hand/body gestures and expression

BIBLE STUDY(Required of all candidates)

1. Prepare an outline for a 4-6 week Bible study for a specific group or class. You may choose any book or books of the Bible. Examples: The Book of Job, The Gospel of John, The Synoptic Gospels.

2. Describe the group for whom the study is prepared. Who are they? What do you know about their Biblical and theological understandings? What questions do you anticipate their bringing to this study? How does who they are affect the teaching/learning processes you will choose?

3. List your expectations and goals in leading the study. What do you expect participants (including yourself) to learn? What might you learn from the group? How do you expect participants to grow or change? What might happen to you?

4. Develop an in-depth lesson plan for one of the sessions of the study.

This should be detailed enough that anyone could pick it up and teach from it.

a. What are your hopes and expectations for this session?

b. What will be the physical setting for the session? How will the meeting place be arranged? Why?

c. What teaching methods will you use?

d. What theological themes will be covered? What place will critical study of the Bible have in the group session?

e. What opportunities will be provided for participants to connect the insights of the study to their lives?

f. What is your role- teacher, facilitator, participant, other?

5. List the references/sources you have used in developing the Bible study. What resources will you recommend to the participants?

The following Bible Study Evaluator’s Comment Sheet and Bible Study Break Down are included for your assistance only. You do not have to complete them. They are the tool used by board members in evaluating the Bible study.

Bible Study Evaluator’s Comment Sheet

Candidate’s Name: ________________________________________________________________________

Is this a reasonable study for a four to six week period? Is the focus specific enough? ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Does he/she understand the audience? Is he/she using appropriate vocabulary, life references, illustrations, etc. for that group?________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

How appropriate are the teaching/learning processes used for the selected group?________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Are the goals realistic? Are the goals aimed toward information or transformation?________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Were the titles, topics, scripture assignments and general objectives provided for each session appropriate?________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Evaluate the in depth session: is it detailed enough? Were appropriate teaching methods used? Was the theology sound? Was the Bible used appropriately? Was life application included?________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

General Comments: ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

BIBLE STUDY BREAK DOWN

Use the following instructions/questions to guide you as you prepare your Bible Study. This is a guideline and included for you assistance only. You do not have to complete it. The Interview Committee will use this tool to evaluate your work.

1. Prepare a teaching plan for a 4-6 week Bible Study for a specific group or class. You may choose any book or books of the Bible. Examples: The Book of James, The Gospel of John, The Synoptic Gospels.

Is it a reasonable study for that short a term? Is the focus specific enough? e.g. a four-week study on Revelation vs. a four-week study on the Beatitudes.

2. Describe the group for whom the Study is planned. Who are they? What do you know about their Biblical and theological understandings? What questions do you anticipate their bringing to this study? How does who they are affect the teaching/learning process you will choose?

Do they understand their audience? Are they using appropriate vocabulary, life references, illustrations, etc. for that group? e.g. A study for Middle School youth that uses words like eschatological, apocalyptic and omnipresence. How appropriate are the teaching/learning processes used for that group? e.g. Using lecture format with overheads, charts and maps for a young mom’s group.

3. List your expectations and goals in leading the Study. What do you expect the participants (including yourself) to learn? How do you expect the participants to grow or change? What might happen to you?

Are the goals realistic? e.g. “Students will be able to explain the mysteries of Revelation after this four week study.” Are they aimed toward information or transformation? e.g. “I expect by the end of the four weeks the students will be able to remember most of the Beatitudes.” vs. “I expect students will be able to articulate the blessings in their own lives after studying the Beatitudes”). Do they expect to learn anything from the students?

4. Write a teaching plan (detailed outline) for all sessions of the Study.

For EACH session they should provide, title, topic, scripture assignment and general objectives. 5. Develop an in-depth lesson plan for one of the sessions.

This should be detailed enough that anyone could pick it up and teach from it.

a. What are your hopes and expectations for this session?See comments on #3

b. What will be the physical setting for the session? How will the meeting place be arranged? Why?Does their arrangement promote interaction and inclusiveness?

c. What teaching methods will you use?Lecture, discussion, open-ended questions, journaling, creative response, group break outs, video, Power Point, overheads, music, internet use, memorization, handouts, fill-in-the-blank sheets, homework, reports, etc.

d. What theological themes will be covered? Are the themes and scriptures consistent? Are the themes too broad/narrow?

What place will critical study of the Bible have in the group session? How much will the Bible be used as primary text vs. commentaries, the Study itself, and outside resources.

e. What opportunities will be provided for participants to connect the insights of the study to their lives?'Life application' parts: commitment cards, written responses, altar calls, and opportunities to articulate “Because of this Study I will go and do….”

6. List references and sources you have used in developing the Bible Study. What resourceswill you recommend to the participants?Are the resources ones the students can actually get? Are they appropriate?

BACKGROUND INFORMATION SHEETfor

Sermon Submitted to Board of Ordained Ministry

(Staple to sermon manuscript. Be sure this is included with manuscript on CD)

NAME OF CANDIDATE ______________________________________________________

BIBLICAL PASSAGE_______________________DATE PREACHED__________________

SERMON TITLE _____________________________________________________________

CONFERENCE STATUS SOUGHT: Provisional Deacon ______ Provisional Elder ______Associate Member ______

1. Describe briefly the setting in which the sermon was preached (nature of the congregation; concern to which the sermon was addressed; type of service where sermon was delivered--e.g. Sunday morning or evening, special service, etc.):

2. State in one sentence the message you sought to convey in this sermon.

3. How much preaching experience have you had to this point in your ministry?

4. State your personal view of the importance of preaching in your role as a minister.

5. What is your personal evaluation of the effectiveness of your preaching ministry at this time in your ministry?

6. What was this sermon designed to accomplish?

The following Guideline for Evaluating a Sermon is included for your assistance only. You do not have to complete it. This is the tool used by board members to evaluate the sermon.

GUIDELINE FOR EVALUATING A SERMON

Overall impression of sermon

Faithfulness to text

Scriptural and theological integrity

How does sermon communicate the Gospel of Jesus Christ?

Logical flow of ideas

Use of illustrations

Application to contemporary life (address question of "So what?")

Introduction and conclusion

Invitation or challenge to the congregation

GUIDELINE FOR EVALUATING A SERMON (Cont'd)

Original and fresh

Appropriate to context

Appropriate to preacher

Grammar

Diction: volume, clarity, mannerisms ("you know," "uh," etc.)

Eye contact

Hand/body gestures and expression

EXAMINATION FOR PROVISIONAL MEMBERSHIP

NORTH GEORGIA ANNUAL CONFERENCE - 2013

SECTION C: CALLED AND DISCIPLINED LIFE

INSTRUCTIONS – PLEASE READ CAREFULLY:

1. Answers should be printed, by computer, double-spaced with standard margins using 12 point font, using only one side of the paper.

2. Submit one (1) hard copy of all written materials and be sure all is included on the CD.3. Copy each question above your answer. Be sure your name is on your paper.4. All work must be completed and in the Office of Ministerial Services (4511 Jones Bridge Circle,

Norcross, GA 30092) no later than Tuesday, September 10, 2013 at noon.

QUESTIONS

1. What is your understanding of the expectations and obligations of the itinerant system?

2. Are you presently convinced that the ordained ministry is the best way to respond to God’s call and claim upon your life? Why do you feel this way?

3. Indicate in some detail how your close personal relationships affect your ministry.

4. Describe your understanding of and appreciation for persons of different racial/ethnic heritages.

5. Describe your understanding of and commitment to The United Methodist Church’s position on human sexuality (e.g., Par. 161-B; 161-F; 162-J; 304.3 - 2012 Book of Discipline). Are you committed to upholding this position?

7. Management of personal finances is important, not only for personal and family reasons, but also for Christian witness. How skilled or disciplined are you in this area of your life? Are you presently in debt so as to interfere with your work and make it difficult for you to live on the salary you may receive? 7. Have you ever applied for or held membership in another Annual Conference? If so, give clear information about this relationship.

8. Describe your participation, attendance, and leadership in a local United Methodist church during the past two years.

9. How do you perceive yourself, your gifts, your motives, your role, and your commitment as a Provisional member in The United Methodist Church?

10. Describe your understanding of diakonia, the servant ministry of the Church, and the ministry of the Provisional member and commissioned minister.

11. What is the meaning of ordination, in the context of the general ministry of the Church? What do you understand are the differences, if any, to deacons orders and elders orders?

12. Describe your understanding of an inclusive church and ministry.

13. You have agreed as a candidate for the sake of the mission of Jesus Christ in the world and the most effective witness of the gospel, and in consideration of your influence as a minister, to make a complete dedication of yourself to the highest ideals of the Christian life as set forth in Par. 304.2, (2012 Book of Discipline) and to this end agree to exercise responsible self-control by personal habits conducive to bodily health, mental and emotional maturity, integrity in all personal relationships, fidelity in marriage and celibacy in singleness, social responsibility and growth in grace and the knowledge and love of God.

What is your understanding of this agreement?

14. Explain the role and significance of the sacraments in the ministry to which you have been called. (This question/answer can be cut and pasted to question 11 on page 6)

15. Knowing the dangers and blessings of technologies like social networking (Facebook, MySpace, Twitter, LinkedIn, blogs, micro blogging, etc.) what steps would you take to safe guard your integrity as a disciple of Christ and a United Methodist minister? What steps will you or have you taken to use this tool to make disciples for the transformation of the world?

16. How do you deal with stress?

17. What habits do you practice to keep yourself healthy: Physically, mentally, spiritually?

18. How do you evaluate your overall physical health?

19. When was your last medical checkup?

20. Do you have any current or chronic health problems?

21. If so, what steps are you taking to care for yourself?

22. How does your physical health impact your ability to be an effective minister?

ADDITIONAL INSTRUCTIONS FOR DEACON CANDIDATES

FOR CALLED & DISCIPLINED LIFE - SECTION C

(Please read carefully)

IN ADDITION - ALL DEACON CANDIDATES MUST respond in depth to the following questions (using specific examples from your own ministry):

1. What is your understanding of your call to servant ministry as expressed in the Deacon Connection?

2. What is your understanding of the deacon's appointment by a bishop according to the provisions of the 2012 Book of Discipline?

3. What is the meaning of ordination in the context of the general ministry of the church?

4. What are the rights and responsibilities of conference membership in full connection?

AUTOBIOGRAPHICAL STATEMENTWrite a statement providing information about your family background and present family situation, church participation and experience, educational history, work experience, and call and response to ministry.

MEDICAL REPORTComplete the candidate's section of the Medical Report form, and then have your personal physician or any licensed physician complete the physician's section.

PSYCHOLOGICAL EVALUATIONYou should already have had a psychological evaluation done through Emory Clergy Care. A copy of your psychological evaluation should be in your district file and should be sent to the Office of Ministerial Services to complete your file. Your psychological evaluation can not be more than 4 years old. If it is older than 4 years you must have another one done and you will need to immediately contact your district office and Emory Clergy Care to set up an appointment (See Instructions for Psychological Evaluation).

CREDIT REPORTProvide the Board of Ordained Ministry with three (3) complete copies of your current credit report from EQUIFAX (only) and three (3) complete copies of your Equifax FICO Credit Score. If your FICO Credit Score does not meet the established minimum of 650, candidate is strongly encouraged to provide additional information using the balance sheet/income statement form. Outstanding indebtedness and FICO scores below 650 should be discussed with your Presenter. You should also be prepared to answer questions during the interview process.

BIOGRAPHICAL/BACKGROUND INFORMATIONProvide the Board of Ordained Ministry with three (3) copies of current Biographical Information Form (form is attached to this packet).

You should already have had a Background Check completed and a copy should have been sent to your district office for your file. You will need to complete the Background Affidavit, have it witnessed by a Notary Public, and submit three (3) copies along with your other materials. These items are to be sent to the Office of Ministerial Services no later than Tuesday, September 10, 2013 by noon.

QUESTIONS FOR DETERMINING U.S. WORK AUTHORIZATIONComplete the questionnaire regarding your employment eligibility. If you answered “No” to question #1 and “Yes” to question #2, please answer give a full explanation of your employment authorization and submit copies of appropriate documentation.

PLAGIARISM STATEMENTSign and date the Plagiarism Statement and provide the Board of Ordained Ministry with three (3) copies along with your other materials.

SECTION D

To be completed and submitted no later than noon on Tuesday, September 10, 2013

SEMINARY RECOMMENDATION FORMAsk your Faculty Advisor or an appropriate administrative officer of your seminary to fill out this form and return it to the Office of Ministerial Services.

OFFICIAL TRANSCRIPTSPlease request that three (3) official (sealed) original transcripts of all college, seminary, and other graduate studies be sent to the Office of Ministerial Services & Spiritual Formation, 4511 Jones Bridge Circle, Norcross, GA 30092.

LETTERS OF REFERENCEGive form for Letter of References to your immediate supervisors (all that apply):

a. District Superintendentb. PPRC Chairperson--if appointed to a local church c. Senior Minister of local church- if appointed, serving on staff or attended over a period of time d. Supervisor- if working or serving in a site other than local church e. If unemployed: someone other than family member who knows you well

Letters of reference can be written by anyone – not family members – who have worked with you or served with you at a local church. If you have any questions regarding the letter of reference please call the Office of Ministerial Services.

BIOGRAPHICAL INFORMATION FORM - 2013Date_______________ Social Security No. _____________________ Birth Date________________ Sex: M__; F___Name _____________________________________________ Maiden Name________________________________Address_______________________________ City ________________________ State ____ Zip _______Yrs __Mo__

Previous Address(es) out of GA during last 7 years Address_______________________________ City ________________________ State ____ Zip _______Yrs __Mo__Address_______________________________ City ________________________ State ____ Zip _______Yrs __Mo__Address_______________________________ City ________________________ State ____ Zip _______Yrs __Mo__

Home Phone( )__________________ Work Phone( )_________________e-mail _______________________

Driver's License# ___________________________ State____ (Attach a copy of current drivers license) Driver’s License# ___________________________ State ____(Other than current if less that 3 years old)

Ethnic Origin: Asian:_______ African/Black American:_______ Hispanic:_______ Native American:_______ Pacific Islander:_______ White:_______ Other:_____________

Your work experience, such as current employment, previous employment, and military experience, if any (past 7 years)

Employer / Address / Phone # Supervisor & Dates of Employ________________________________________________________________ _____________________________ ________________________________________________________________ _____________________________ ________________________________________________________________ _____________________________ ________________________________________________________________ _____________________________ ________________________________________________________________ _____________________________ ________________________________________________________________ _____________________________

Your Educational Background: (include location) Dates Attended Degree or Credit Hrs

High School _______________________________________ ___________________ ___________________College___________________________________________ ___________________ ___________________Theological Seminary _______________________________ ___________________ ___________________

Course of Study for Ordained Ministry Yr.1_____; Yr2_____; Yr3_____; Yr4_____; Yr5_____Advanced Course of Study: Yr.1_____; Yr2_____; Yr3_____; Yr4_____

Marital Status: Single, never married:____ Married, in first marriage___; Married, in second or more (how many marriages):____ Widowed:___________ Separated: _________________ Divorced:___________If married, spouse's name ___________________________________________ Birth Date_______________________ Date of Marriage: __________ Spouse's occupation:___________________________ Number of children, if any:____

Name of Child Date of Birth Sex Education______________________________________ _____________ ______ __________________________________________________________________ _____________ ______ __________________________________________________________________ _____________ ______ __________________________________________________________________ _____________ ______ ____________________________

District: ________________

Childhood family and other significant relatives:

Name Relation/ Age Sex Education Marital Occupation Status

_____________________________ ( Father ) . _____ _____________ _________ __________________ _____________________________ ( Mother ) . _____ _____________ _________ __________________ _____________________________ ____________ _____ _____________ _________ __________________

Local Church________________________________________________City_______________________________Conference______________________________________________District________________________________When joined ___________________________________________________________________________________

Briefly describe your involvement in your local church, such as your leadership positions, groups you enjoy, church activities, etc.__________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________

Describe your church involvement in activities beyond your local church, such as district or annual conference work,church camps, worships, outreach, etc.______________________________________________________________________________________________ ____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Describe your community involvement work, such as participation in community organizations, social clubs, service agencies, and other non-church-related volunteer service:____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ ______________________________________________________________________________________________

Have you served as a local pastor, diaconal minister, deacon or elder in the United Methodist Church? ___________Conference?_________________________________________

Conference Relationship (Indicate Date)Consecrated Diaconal Minister___________ Provisional Member___________ License as a Local Pastor_______ Pastor_____________________________ Deacon in Full Connection___________Associate Member___________________ Elder in Full Connection_____________ Have you had a change in clergy relationship with a conference of the United Meth. Church?___________________Conference?__________________________________________________________

Change in Conference Relationship (Indicate Date)Discontinuance_______________________________ Retirement_________________________________________Leave of Absence_____________________________ Withdrawal_________________________________________Disability Leave______________________________ Termination by action of the annual conference____________Location ______________________________________________________________________________________

__________________________ ________________________________________________ Date Signature

INSTRUCTIONS FOR PSYCHOLOGICAL EVALUATIONCandidates for Provisional Membership - 2013

North Georgia Annual Conference

1. You are asked to provide the Conference Board of Ordained Ministry with a psychological evaluation produced by:

Emory Clergy Care (678-924-9260) (toll free 866-394-9330)Contact Person: Ms. Cynthia Lyons3700 Crestwood Parkway, Suite 270Duluth, Georgia 30096

The evaluation will include psychological testing and a clinical interview.

2. You should call Emory Clergy Care (Ms. Cynthia Lyons) immediately to make arrangements for the evaluation if you did not do so at the time of certification as a candidate for ordained ministry. This will involve more than one appointment. You will need to sign release forms provided by Emory Clergy Care.

If you received an evaluation at the time of certification, please contact your District Superintendent to see if you will need to have another evaluation at this time. If your DS does not feel a current evaluation is necessary, the results from your previously completed psychological evaluation should be forwarded to the Office of Ministerial Services and Spiritual Formation at the address below. Psychological evaluations must be less than four years old on December 31, the year recommended by dCOM .

3. The report of the psychologist should be sent (before Tuesday, September 10, 2013) to: Rev. Jane N. Brooks, 4511 Jones Bridge Circle, Norcross, GA 30092

4. The evaluation will become a part of your file, and will be only one piece of data used by the Conference Board of Ordained Ministry in its consideration of your candidacy for conference membership and ordination. It is hoped, as well, that your own self-understanding will be enhanced through the testing and the time of reflection with a professional counselor on significant factors in your personality make-up.

For Candidates Residing Outside the Bounds of the Annual Conference

For uniformity of evaluation, all candidates must secure their evaluation through Emory Clergy Care.

DIRECTIONS TO EMORY CLERGY CARE

3700 Crestwood ParkwaySuite 270

Duluth, GA 30096

From I-85 North, take Pleasant Hill Road Exit, turn right and get into the extreme right-hand lane. Go to the second traffic light which is Crestwood Parkway, turn right and then turn left into Gwinnett Commerce Center. Go to the second floor to Suite 270.

* * * * * *

From I-85 South, take the Pleasant Hill Road Exit, turn left and go over the expressway. After crossing over the bridge, get into the extreme right-hand lane. Go to the second traffic light (not counting the one on the bridge), and turn right on Crestwood Parkway. Turn left into Gwinnett Commerce Center. Go to the second floor to Suite 270.

* * * * * *

From Lawrenceville Highway (#29) North, turn left at Pleasant Hill Road. When you cross over a main thoroughfare, Club Drive, turn left at the next street. That will be Crestwood Parkway. Turn left into Gwinnett Commerce Center. Go to the second floor to Suite 270.

THE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH MEDICAL REPORT OF MINISTERIAL CANDIDATE

Indicate to physician the address where this report should be sent

Part I: MEDICAL HISTORY REPORTTo be completed by the candidate

Name _________________________________________________________________ Date of birth ________________________

Address ___________________________________________________________________________________________________

Marital status __________________________________________________ Number of children ___________________________

1. Check if you have ever had:

Arthritis Diabetes High blood pressure Poliomyelitis

Asthma Epilepsy Kidney trouble Rheumatic fever

Cancer Heart trouble Peptic ulcer Tuberculosis

2. Check if any member of your family has ever had:

Arthritis Diabetes High blood pressure Poliomyelitis

Asthma Epilepsy Kidney trouble Rheumatic fever

Cancer Heart trouble Peptic ulcer Tuberculosis

Explain. ___________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________________

3. What vaccinations or inoculations have you had? Give dates_______________________________________________________

4. Have you ever had an electrocardiogram? ________ If so, give date and attending physician: _____________________________

5. Have you ever had a serious accident or operation? ______ Explain _________________________________________________

6. Have you any impairment of sight?________________________________ Hearing? ___________________________________

7. If your weight has changed in the past two years, state approximate loss gain _________________________

8. Have your ever been rejected for life insurance? ________________________________________________________________

9. Have your ever received treatment for alcohol or drug habit? ______________________________________________________

10. Do you smoke? How long? How much? ____________________________________________

11. Have you ever been under observation or treatment in any hospital or sanitarium for a physical or nervous condition?

Explain. ___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________ __________________________________________________________________________________________________________

The above statements are true and accurate to the best of my knowledge.

SSignature Date_________________________

PART II: MEDICAL PHYSICIAN'S REPORT

To be completed by the physician

1. General Appearance ______________________________________________________________________________________

2. Personal Hygiene ________________________________________________________________________________________

3. Height Weight _____________________________________________

4. Temperature Pulse Blood Pressure_________________________

(give readings before and after exercise)

5. Vision _________________________________________________________________________________________________

6. Hearing _______________________________________________________________________________________________

7. Condition of mouth and throat: _____________________________________________________________________________

Pharynx Tonsils ___________________________________________________

Mucous membranes Teeth ________________________________________________

Tongue Gum _________________________________________________

8. Evidence of goiter, enlarged glands, or other tumors ____________________________________________________________

9. Evidence of varicosity Hernia_____________________________________________

8. Evidence of disease or abnormalities of :______________________________________________________________________

9. Heart___________________________________________________

Lungs __________________________________________________

Thorax__________________________________________________

Spine___________________________________________________

Genitalia ________________________________________________

11. Evaluate nervous and mental condition

Laboratory Tests (required)

Pap Smear (for all women) Mammogram (for all women over 40)______________________

PSA (for men over 50) Cholesterol __________________________________________

Fasting Blood Sugar _________________________________________________________________________________________

SUMMARY OF FINDINGS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

Name of physician __________________________________________________________________________________________ (Type or print)

Address __________________________________________________________________________________________________

Signature of physician ______________________________________________________________________________________

Date _____________________________________________________________________________________________________

OFFICIAL FORM FROM DIVISION OF ORDAINED MINISTRYTHE UNITED METHODIST CHURCH

THEOLOGICAL SCHOOL RECOMMENDATION FORM FOR ORDINATION AND CONFERENCE MEMBERSHIP

Student’s Name _______________________________________________________________________________

Annual Conference ____________________________________________________________________________

Theological School 1. Have the Theological School send your academic transcript directly to the Registrar of the Board of Ordained

Ministry listed below.

2. Take a copy of this Recommendation Form to your faculty advisor or another faculty member of the theological school for completion, and have it sent directly to the Registrar of the Board of Ordained Ministry.

3. Give a second copy of this form to the Office of Field Education if you have had a field education assignment (might be called Supervised Ministry or Contextual Education) and have it sent directly

to the Registrar of the Board of Ordained Ministry.

4. Authorize the release of information by signing the release statement below.

RELEASE INFORMATION --- THIS MUST BE SIGNED BY CANDIDATE :

I hereby authorize release of the information requested to the Registrar of the Board of Ordained Ministry listed below.

Recognizing the confidential nature of this recommendation,

I DO waive all rights of access to this report without the written consent of the person providing the information.

I DO NOT waive all rights of access to this report without the written consent of the person providing the information.

Signed: Dated: _________________________

Instructions to the Theological School Representative:1. The Board of Ordained Ministry is interested in any personal insights you can provide with regard

to the candidate in the following areas:a. Academic ability and performanceb. Personal qualities and characterc. Spiritual maturity and insightd. Field education experience and effectiveness

2. Use the space provided on 2nd page of this form for your comments and recommendations.3. Attach any additional comments or reports you believe will be helpful in the decision-making process.4. Return this form and any attachments directly to:

BOM Registrar, Jane Brooks4511 Jones Bridge Circle Norcross, Georgia 30092

By the Deadline (Date) __________________________________________

Note to Theological School Faculty Member or Administrator:

The Board of Ordained Ministry is interested in any personal insights you can provide with regard to the candidate in the areas of (1) academic ability and performance, (2) personal qualities and character, (3) spiritual maturity and insight, and (4) field education experience and effectiveness.

Do you consider the candidate ready for ordination and conference membership in the United Methodist Church?

Yes No

**********************************************************************

Recommendation Submitted By: _____________________________________________________________________(Signed)

________________________________________________________________________________________________(Printed)

Theological School Position: ________________________________________________________________________

Address: ________________________________________________________________________________________

Telephone ( ) _______________________________________________________________

Date: _______________________________________________________

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LETTERS OF REFERENCE

INSTRUCTIONS TO CANDIDATE

1. Please give this form to all of the following that apply

a. District Superintendent

b. PPRC Chairperson--if appointed to a local church

c. Senior Minister of local church- if appointed, serving on staff or attended over a period of time

d. Supervisor- if working or serving in a site other than local church

e. If unemployed - someone other than family member who knows you well

Letters of reference can be written by anyone – not family members – who have worked with you or served with you at a local church.

Ask your persons writing letters to return the responses to the questions below no later than Tuesday, September 10, 2013 to: Rev. Jane N. Brooks, 4511 Jones Bridge Circle, Norcross, GA 30092.

2. CANDIDATE DOES NOT HAVE ACCESS TO THE CONTENT OF THESE LETTERS WITHOUT PRIOR CONSENT OF THE WRITER.

INSTRUCTIONS TO PERSONS WRITING LETTERS OF REFERENCE

You have been asked to write a letter of reference for a person who is seeking approval of the Board of Ordained Ministry of the North Georgia Conference. Your letter of reference will be a very important part of the evaluation of the candidate for ministry in the United Methodist Church. Please answer each and all questions as completely and as candidly as possible. Additional information may be provided if you think it would be helpful. PLEASE NOTE THAT THE CANDIDATE DOES NOT HAVE ACCESS TO THE CONTENT OF THESE LETTERS WITHOUT PRIOR CONSENT OF THE WRITER. Return to Rev. Jane N. Brooks, 4511 Jones Bridge Circle, Norcross, GA 30092 no later than Tuesday, September 10, 2013.

1. What were the candidate’s responsibilities when he/she worked with you?

2. What gifts have you observed in the candidate that would affirm their call to ordained ministry in the United Methodist Church?

3. Describe the candidate’s work ethic as you have observed him/her in discharging his/her responsibilities.

4. Does the candidate display an ability to lead people to a relationship with Christ? Give examples.

5. Is the candidate effective in his/her appointment/job? Give rationale for your answer.

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6. If you have observed the candidate in times of stress and/or conflict, how did he/she respond and how did the circumstances affect the performance of their duties?

7. What is your evaluation of the candidate’s interpersonal relational skills? How well does he/she get along with a variety of people?

8. What is the attitude of the candidate to deadlines? How would you describe the candidate’s ability to meet deadlines?

9. How does the candidate respond to criticism and the suggestions of others?

10. What strengths and skills will the candidate bring to ministry? What weaknesses will the candidate bring to ministry?

11. What is the largest challenge the candidate faced and how did he/she respond?

12. Does your experience with the candidate cause you to have any concern that this person can function effectively within the structure of the United Methodist Church? If your answer is yes, please explain.

INSTRUCTIONS TO DISTRICT SUPERINTENDENTS WRITING LETTERS OF REFERENCE:

You have been asked to respond to the following questions for a person who is seeking approval of the Board of Ordained Ministry of the North Georgia Conference. As their District Superintendent your letter of reference will be a very important part of the evaluation of the candidate for ministry in the United Methodist Church. Please give candid and complete answers to the following questions. PLEASE NOTE THE CANDIDATE DOES NOT HAVE ACCESS TO THE CONTENT OF THESE LETTERS WITHOUT PRIOR CONSENT OF THE WRITER. Return to Rev. Jane N. Brooks, 4511 Jones Bridge Road, Norcross, GA 30092 no later than Tuesday, September 10, 2013 by noon.

1. What were the candidate’s responsibilities when he/she worked with you?

2. What gifts have you observed in the candidate that would affirm their call to ordained ministry in the united Methodist Church?

3. Describe the candidate’s work ethic as you have observed him/her in discharging his/her responsibilities.

4. Does the candidate display an ability to lead people to a relationship with Christ? Give examples.

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LETTERS OF REFERENCE (continued)

5. Is the candidate effective in his/her appointment/job? Give rationale for your answer.

6. If you have observed the candidate in times of stress and/or conflict, how did he/she respond and how did the circumstances affect the performance of his/her duties?

7. What is your evaluation of the candidate’s interpersonal relational skills? How well do he/she get along with a variety of people?

8. What is the attitude of the candidate to deadlines? How would you describe the candidate’s ability to meet deadlines?

9. How does the candidate respond to criticism and the suggestions of others?

10. What strengths and skills will the candidate bring to ministry? What weaknesses will the candidate bring to ministry?

11. What is the largest challenge the candidate faced and how did he/she respond?

12. Does your experience with the candidate cause you to have any concern that this person can function effectively within the structure of the United Methodist Church? If your answer is yes, please explain.

13. If the candidate is married, is his/her family supportive of their participation in the ordained ministry?

14. If the candidate is on the elder track, is his/her spouse supportive of participation in the itinerant system?

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NORTH GEORGIA BOARD OF ORDAINED MINISTRYAPPLICATION AUTHORIZATION AND CONSENT FOR RELEASE AND DISCLOSURE

We welcome your application for membership with the North Georgia Conference of The United Methodist Church. We are proud of our success and recognize it is due to the quality and caliber of the clergy of our conference. In pursuit of that excellence we require, as a condition of membership, that all applicants consent to and authorize a verification of the background information submitted on their application and resumes.

This release and authorization acknowledges that the North Georgia Conference of The United MethodistChurch, and MBI Worldwide, a consumer reporting agency, may conduct and review a verification of your education, previous employment/work history, contact personal references, access motor vehicle records, and receive any criminal history record pertaining to you which may be in the files of any federal, state, county or local criminal justice agency in any State and/or other information deemed necessary. The information received may be collected from, but is not limited to the aforementioned agencies.

NOTE: The following information is provided voluntarily and providing this information does not indicate that you are, or will be, accepted for candidacy for membership in the North Georgia Conference of The United Methodist Church. The information provided is used for identification purposes and the results of this verification process will be used to determine membership eligibility. Please print clearly all information required.

APPLICANT'S STATEMENT OF AUTHORIZATION AND CONSENT

I authorize MBI Worldwide and any of its agents/designated representatives to disclose orally, electronically, and in writing the results of this verification process and/or interview to the designated authorized representatives of the North Georgia Conference Board of Ordained Ministry.

I do hereby forever release and discharge North Georgia Conference, its agents, MBI Worldwide and its associates to the full extent permitted by the law from damages, losses, liabilities, costs and expenses, or any other charge or complaint filed with any agency arising from the retrieving and reporting of information.

I hereby certify that all of the statements and answers set forth on the application form and/or my resume are true and complete to the best of my knowledge. I understand that if subsequent to membership any such statements and/or answers are found false or that information has been omitted, such false information or omissions will be considered as cause for possible dismissal.

______________________________ _____________________________________________DATE SIGNATURE

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District:

BACKGROUND AFFIDAVIT FOR CANDIDATES FOR PROVISIONAL MEMBERSHIP

North Georgia Annual Conference

MY NAME IS _________________________________________________________________

I hereby certify that:

______ I have never been accused in writing nor convicted of a felony, misdemeanor, incident of sexual misconduct, or child abuse;

ORI hereby certify that:

______ I have never been convicted for a felony or misdemeanor, nor have been accused in writing of sexual misconduct or child abuse.

OR

I hereby certify that:

______ the details given below are true and accurate accounts of any incident or incidents in which I have been convicted for felony or misdemeanor, or have been accused in writing of sexual misconduct or child abuse;

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

Signature_________________________________________________________ (Seal)

Sworn to and subscribed before me this _______ day of ____________________, __________.

_________________________ Notary Public, State of __________________. My commission

expires _________________.

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QUESTIONS FOR DETERMINING U. S. WORK AUTHORIZATION

1. Without specifying a particular category, are you eligible for employment in the U. S. by virtue of being one of the following:

____U. S. Citizen____Permanent Resident____Asylee or Refugee____Lawful temporary resident under one of the amnesty programs? Yes___ No___

IF YOU ANSWERED "YES" TO QUESTION 1, DO NOT COMPLETE QUESTIONS 2 & 3

2. If the answer to Question 1 is "no", are you currently authorized to work in the U. S.?

Yes___ No___

3. If "yes", please explain the basis of your employment authorization:

____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________

___________________________ ____________________________________ Date Signature

Page 40

North Georgia Conference Board of Ordained Ministry Suggested Bibliography

The following bibliography is recommended for ordained ministry candidates applying for Provisional and full connection in the North Georgia Conference. This is not an exhaustive bibliography but a suggested introductory list for candidates.

1. The Bible

2. The Book of Discipline of the United Methodist Church

3. John Wesley’s Sermons – especially the “Fifty-three standard sermons”

4. The United Methodist Hymnal

5. The United Methodist Book of Worship

6. Methodist Doctrine: The Essentials by Ted Campbell ISBN: 0687034752

7. United Methodist Doctrine: The Extreme Center by Scott JonesISBN: 068703485X

8. Responsible Grace: John Wesley’s Practical Theology by Randy MaddoxISBN: 0687003342

9. This Holy Mystery by Gayle Carlton FeltonGeneral Conference approved statement on Holy CommunionFree PDF version can be downloaded at: http://www.gbod.org/worship/thmbooklet.pdf

10. By Water and the Spirit by Gayle Carlton FeltonGeneral Conference approved statement on Holy BaptismFree PDF version can be downloaded at:http://www.gbod.org/worship/images/water&spirit.pdf

Page 41

Statement of Intellectual Integrity of Board of Ordained Ministry Interview Documents North Georgia Conference- BOM approved- October 8, 2009

From www.plagiarism.com

People think of plagiarism as copying another's work, or borrowing someone else's original ideas. But terms like "copying" and "borrowing" can disguise the seriousness of the offense: According to the Merriam-Webster Online Dictionary, to "plagiarize" means:

to steal and pass off (the ideas or words of another) as one's own

to use (another's production) without crediting the source

to commit literary theft

to present as new and original an idea or product derived from an existing source

In other words, plagiarism is an act of fraud. It involves both stealing someone else's work and lying about it afterward. But can words and ideas really be stolen? According to U.S. law, the answer is yes. The expression of original ideas is considered intellectual property, and is protected by copyright laws, just like original inventions. Almost all forms of expression fall under copyright protection as long as they are recorded in some way (such as a book or a computer file).

All of the following are considered plagiarism: turning in someone else's work as your own

copying sentences or ideas from someone else without giving credit

failing to put a quotation in quotation marks

giving incorrect information about the source of a quotation

changing words but copying the sentence structure of a source without giving credit

copying so many words or ideas from a source that it makes up the majority of your work, whether you give credit or not (see our section on "fair use" rules)

Most cases of plagiarism can be avoided, however, by correctly citing sources. Simply acknowledging that certain material has been borrowed, and providing your audience with the information necessary to find that source, is usually enough to prevent plagiarism.

- - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - -

I have read the statement regarding plagiarism above and certify that none of the work that I have submitted to the Board of Ordained Ministry this year is plagiarized. I understand that the consequence of plagiarism in my paperwork would be deferral with deficiencies or such other action as the Board deems appropriate.

Signed ______________________________________________ Date _______________________

Page 42

North Georgia Conference Board of Ordained Ministry Candidate Personal Income and Expenses Statement

(At candidate’s discretion this may be used to address failure to meet required minimum credit score of 650)

North Georgia Conference Board of Ordained MinistryCandidate Personal Balance Sheet

Name: Date:

Candidate Spouse Total

Assets:

Cash 0 0 0

Investments 0 0 0

Cash Value of Life Ins 0 0 0

Retirement Funds 0 0 0

Home 0 0 0

Automobiles 0 0 0

Furnishings 0 0 0

Other Assets 0 0 000

Total Assets 0 0 0

Liabilities:

Mortgage 0 0 0

2nd Mortgage/HELOC 0 0 0

Auto Loan 0 0 0

Credit Cards 0 0 0

Other Liabilities 0 0 000

Total Liabilities 0 0 0

Net Worth 0 0 0

Candidate's Signature:_______________________________

Spouse's Signature:_________________________________

Name: Date:

Candidate Spouse Total

Income:

Salary(Net) 0 0 0

Investment Income 0 0 0

Commissions 0 0 0

Housing Allowance 0 0 0

Total Income 0 0 0

Expenses:

Mortgage/Rent(gross-incl ins & taxes) 0 0 0

Credit Card (min) 0 0 0

2nd Mort/HELOC(min) 0 0 0

Auto Loan 0 0 0

Groceries 0 0 0

Auto Insurance 0 0 0

Renter Insurance (if applicable) 0 0 0

Utilities 0 0 0

Dependent Care 0 0 0

Charitable Contributions 0 0 0

Gasoline 0 0 0

Home Maintenance 0 0 0

Auto Maintenance 0 0 0

Medical(copays/deductibles) 0 0 0

Entertainment 0 0 0

Miscellaneous 0 0 0

Total Expenses 0 0 0

Surplus/(deficit) 0 0 0

Candidates Signature:______________________________ Spouses Signature:_______________________________

North Georgia Conference Board of Ordained MinistryName: Date:

Candidate Credit Evaluation

Debt Safety Ratio: 0 Total Minimum Payments

0 Total Net Income

0 Debt Safety Ratio

0 % of Net pay committed to minimum debt payments