WELCOME SESSION MEMBERS

The Book of Order provides for the appointment of a ruling elder (or a group of persons including at least one ruling elder) to act as liaison with the Inquirer/Candidate and with the presbytery's CPM. This liaison participates with the inquirer/candidate as well as the CPM as they explore and evaluate his or her progress in the preparation for ministry. 
 
On this page you'll be able to find various documents and forms that you will most likely need as you support your inquirers and candidates. Please make especially sure to read the PCUSA Preparation for Ministry Handbook, our most comprehensive guide to the ordination process. 

RESOURCES

Important reading for supporting those under care:
-  Goals and Responsibilities of Session 
-  Developing Awareness of the Call
-  Exploring the Call Together
-  Supporting Inquirers and Candidates

Forms specifically for Session to file with CPM:

Form 1D  “Session Evaluation and Recommendation”
This form is completed by the applicant’s session and forwarded along with the other application forms to the presbytery’s committee/commission overseeing preparation for ministry. The form includes questions that may guide the session’s discussion with the applicant and provide support for its recommendation to the committee/commission overseeing preparation for ministry.
 
Form 5B  “Session recommendation for Enrollment as Candidate”
This form is completed by the inquirer’s session and forwarded to the presbytery’s committee/commission overseeing preparation for ministry when the inquirer is ready to move to candidacy. Questions that may guide the session’s discussion with the inquirer and provide support for its recommendation to the committee/commission overseeing preparation for ministry may be found in the "Advisory Handbook" on pages 39 - 41. Attach a letter explaining rationale for the session’s action in light of inquirer’s suitability. 
 
Form 5D  “Covenant Agreement and Candidate Release”
A signed acknowledgement of the new covenant relationship entered into by the candidate, the session and the committee/commission overseeing preparation for ministry. The candidate release sets in motion an understanding that permits the committee/commission overseeing preparation for ministry to secure information necessary to make responsible decisions and recommendations.