A Minister is a member of the government who heads a ministry, responsible for implementing and overseeing policies in their area of expertise. Ministers are chosen by the head of government, who is often known as the prime minister, president, or other title. They are expected to represent the government in a wide range of public forums, media interactions, and international meetings, articulating their country’s stance on various issues while also balancing administrative responsibilities and budgetary constraints.
The path to becoming a Minister is complex and requires a unique blend of spiritual calling, educational qualifications, and practical experience. Typically, ministers begin their journey through religious community, seeking to deepen and cultivate their faith as they work toward being credentialed in the broader church. Once qualified, they pursue formal theological education through a bachelor’s or master’s degree in Divinity, Theology, or a related field. Their education is supplemented by practical training through internships, mentorships, and volunteer opportunities within religious organizations.
CLI offers multiple pathways for students who wish to become ordained ministers, including through online ordination. However, it’s important to note that, under current tax law, if an individual receives compensation for the ministerial services they provide, they are considered a common-law employee and must be provided with benefits such as health and life insurance, vacation pay, and pension contributions. This is an important distinction to make because it affects how much a person can deduct for their taxes. Click here for more information.