Credential Application

The academic requirements for the Licensed Minister and Recognition of Ministry credential levels is attached here: Credential Course Requirements. The time required to apply for ordination, with the licensed minister credential shall be a minimum of two full and continuous years of ministry. Applicants who are engaged in part-time ministry which involves at least 20 hours of active ministerial responsibility per week shall be eligible for ordination after four years of the equivalent of a minimum of two full years of continuous ministry. If, in the opinion of the district credential committee proven ministry would benefit by further review, the time requirement for approval of the ordination credential may be extended. (General Constitution By-Law 10.2.2.1.1)

The PAOC recognizes the following Ministry Training Institutions for approved credits toward Ministerial Credentials: Ministry Training Institutions

If a credential applicant has taken courses at a different College/University/Seminary, those courses can be evaluated by the PAOC Bible College closest to where the credential applicant resides. This evaluation is done through the local district office as part of the credential application process.

Documentation: Credentials: Qualified to lead

To apply for Ministerial Credentials, please contact the district office closest to your residence.

If you have been divorced and are remarried or if you are married to someone who was previously divorced, a Divorced & Remarried Credential Application (and Spousal Supplement Application if applicable) are required in addition to the Application for Ministerial Credentials.

Divorced & Remarried Credential Applications (and Spousal Supplement Application if applicable) are processed through the Office of the Assistant Superintendent for Fellowship Services at the International Office, in cooperation with the Application for Ministerial Credentials being processed through the local district office.