Ordination is more than a ceremony—it’s a journey. Long before credentials are issued or hands are laid, the Holy Spirit awakens faith, stirs love, and plants a seed of service. The Christian Leaders Alliance (CLA) ordination pathway honors that sacred process through seven biblically grounded ordination steps that integrate learning, formation, accountability, and practical ministry.
At CLA, calling is both inward and outward:
These two dimensions protect the balance between divine initiative and human humility. Ordination is never self-appointed; it is Spirit-called, community-affirmed, and mission-sent.
Every ordination story starts with new life in Christ (2 Corinthians 5:17). Believers begin to pray, read Scripture, and obey—writing the first pages of their testimony. That testimony becomes a minister’s first sermon: a lived witness to the gospel’s power (Revelation 12:11).
Purpose of this step: Establish a daily rhythm of prayer, Scripture, and obedience; begin articulating your story of grace.
Belief begins the journey; discipleship forms the life (Romans 12:1–2). At CLA, discipleship is described through the Seven Connections of Love—a lifelong rhythm of talking with God and listening through Scripture in every sphere: self, marriage/close friend, family, small group/friends, church, Kingdom, and the unreached world.
Purpose of this step: Integrate faith into relationships and responsibilities; grow in steady, fruitful obedience.
As disciples mature, they enter intentional ministry discernment: “Lord, how do You want to use my life?” CLA revives the ancient catechumenate—a distinct stage of learning and testing. After completing the Multiplying Christian Leaders course at the Christian Leaders Institute (CLI), you are recognized as a Catechumen in the CLA Directory and begin a study-based pathway toward ordination.
Purpose of this step: Clarify internal calling and seek external affirmation through study, prayer, and mentoring.
Calling must be cultivated. Through CLI, Catechumens study Bible & theology, pursue spiritual formation, and develop practical ministry skills (2 Timothy 2:15). Training is for volunteers, bi-vocational ministers, and full-time leaders alike—because all ministry is sacred.
Purpose of this step: Build competence in Word, character, and practice; align gifting with real ministry needs.
Ordination is where personal readiness meets public recognition. CLA holds together the inner call of the Spirit and the external call of the Church (Acts 13:2–3). Endorsements—personal, pastoral, and ministerial—serve as community witnesses that a candidate has been tested, observed, and affirmed.
Purpose of this step: Allow the Body of Christ to say, “We see God’s work in you, and we entrust you to serve in His name.”
Ordination reaches visible completion when a leader receives credentials and is commissioned locally. CLA credentials (ID card, certificate, letter of good standing, and role-specific tools) represent identity and accountability; commissioning (often in a church or Soul Center) is the Church’s blessing and sending (Acts 14:23).
Purpose of this step: Link global recognition with local belonging; step into service under prayer and oversight.
Ordination is a beginning, not an ending. Leaders serve as officiants, ministers, chaplains, or coaches; some volunteer, others serve bi-vocationally or full-time. What matters is faithfulness (1 Corinthians 4:2). CLI offers continuing education so ministers can deepen and multiply their impact (1 Timothy 4:15; 2 Timothy 2:2).
Purpose of this step: Serve with humility and courage; keep learning; raise up new leaders.
From Catechumen onward, your path can branch into recognized roles, such as:
Each role builds on the foundation you begin as a Catechumen.
Your journey begins with one faithful step: study, pray, and prepare.
Prayer of the ordained servant: “Here I am, Lord. Use me, teach me, send me.”
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For those who want to explore how ordination has been understood across the global Church, this ecumenical resource from the World Council of Churches offers a rich theological overview of ministry and its historical foundations:
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