Why credentials?
To some extent, carrying credentials is like a badge of loyalty. But even more than that, it’s a symbol that validates your calling and challenges you to walk worthy of it.
To be a credentialed minister is more than the legal privilege to marry and bury; it’s an incentivized opportunity to locate the target and eventually launch into the deep.
To receive Ministry Credentials at any level with the Pentecostal Church of God, individuals must complete various educational requirements and undergo an application process. Upon receipt of the application, a date for an interview will be set by the district officials, and upon their recommendation, the application will be forwarded to the International Mission Center for final approval.
1) Complete the Minister's
Study Series
Before receiving credentials, ministers at every level are required to first complete the Minister’s Study Series (either the traditional or online method), which involves a particular set of readings and accompanying review questions, or equivalent. The exhorter series emphasizes biblical studies and theology, while the licensed and ordained series dive deeper into spiritual formation and ministerial leadership. All ministers must also be familiar with current PCG bylaws.
Equivalency options may include the Forerunner Experience (Exhorter only) or an undergraduate degree at Messenger College or other Spirit-filled Bible college / university.
View book & list details.
2) Fill Out the Application and Attached Forms
Upon completion of the Minister’s Study Series, individuals may fill out an application and submit directly to their state or district office. Unique forms are attached in the link to accommodate specific situations.
(a) New applicants - must complete the Application for Minister’s Credentials,
(b) Previous applicants - must complete the Application for Reinstatement
(c) Current ministers seeking promotion - must complete the Application for Promotion.
Please fill out every relevant and applicable form (i.e. felony or divorce), and take care to include the pastoral reference letter.
3) Submit Forms and Fees to District Office
Along with the application, forms, and pastoral reference, please also include a check or money order made out to the Pentecostal Church of God. Application forms and fees should be mailed to the appropriate district office (click here to view the directory).
Fees include: $25 for background checks (some geographical areas, such as New York, may be slightly higher) plus $90 advance payment (covering the first three months).
If for some reason the application is denied, $60 will be refunded to the applicant, while the remaining $55 will be retained for processing charges. Messenger College and Forerunner students are exempt from these application and processing fees for a limited time.
