What is ordination and why is it important?

Ordination is the process of setting people apart for full-time pastoral ministry in Christ’s church. This process varies by denomination, according to theology and wisdom. But, the goal is always to ensure that ministers of the word are faithfully shepherding the flock and preaching the gospel. Biblically, ordination can be seen in Timothy’s being set apart (1 Timothy 4:14; 2 Timothy 1:6) and Paul’s instruction to Titus to appoint elders (Titus 1:5).

What is the process for ordination in the KAPC?

The basic steps toward ordination in the KAPC/NAP are as follows:

1) Come under care of the NAP.

2) Write 4 theological papers which are graded by the General Assembly (GA).

3) Take a set of examinations given by the GA.

4) Be examined (written and oral) by the NAP.

5) Be ordained in an ordination service, which is overseen by the NAP.

What are the topics covered by the GA papers?

The four ordination papers are OT Exegesis, NT Exegesis, Pastoral Theology, and a Sermon. The specific passages/topics change each year. They are generally announced in October and due at the end of March.

What topics are covered by the GA exams?

The GA written exams cover the areas of systematic theology, church history, Presbyterianism, and the Book of Church Order. These exams are given in May just before the convening of the GA.

What are the topics covered by the NAP exams?

The Presbytery has the final authority to ordain or not any particular candidate. So, any topic is fair game. Written exams are given on the confession and pastoral theology. An oral interview is also part of the NAP examination.

What does it mean to be undercare of the NAP or another presbytery?

A person comes undercare of the NAP (or another presbytery) in order to be prepared and trained by the NAP for pastoral ministry. In this relationship, the NAP oversees his progress in training and ministry via an overseer who is assigned to each person. The overseer mentors and encourages him through regular meetings and reports back to the NAP. Anyone seeking ordination as a minister in the NAP must be undercare.

How do I come undercare?

After making a formal request to come undercare, candidates are examined and interviewed during a Presbytery meeting by the Examination Committee. The Committee reports to the floor and a decision is made by the Presbytery on whether to approve the request.

What are the requirements to come undercare?

There is no exact answer to this question. What is expected of someone coming undercare depends upon their level of training and experience. You do not have to be a seminary graduate. But, this is specifically for men who want to pursue pastoral ministry. Generally, this means that a candidate is at least a seminary student and actively training for ministry.

Whom do I contact to come undercare?

A formal letter of request should be sent to the NAP Stated Clerk.

What about these tests that I have to take?

Since a person undercare of the NAP is being trained for ministry, these tests help the Presbytery gauge a person’s readiness. Again, we would expect different results from a seminary graduate than a first-year seminary student. But, we do want to make sure candidates are of a requisite maturity and understanding. Written tests are given in the subjects of English Bible and Confession of Faith. Candidates are also interviewed.

Can you tell me the detailed guidelines to come undercare in the NAP?

1. Application for Under Care Status

   1. Anyone desiring to come under care of the NAP in preparation for gospel ministry should submit the following to the Stated Clerk:

      1. Letter of intent

      2. Letter of recommendation or letter of transfer

      3. Resume with description of present ministry

2. Examination & Interview

   1. At or before the scheduled presbytery meeting, the Examination Committee shall review these documents and administer the following:

      1. Written exam covering English Bible

      2. Written exam covering the KAPC Creed and the Westminster Confession of Faith

      3. Personal interview

   2. The Examination Committee shall then recommend a course of action to the floor of the Presbytery.

3. Oversight

   1. Each brother received under care will be overseen by an NAP pastor, who will monitor the candidate’s internship and overall progress in preparation for ordination.