“Equipping Ministers. Supporting Ministries. For Life.”
The Southern Florida District Board of Ministry (BOM) prepares, guides, and evaluates Ministers in Training (MITs), walking alongside men and women who are responding to God’s call into ministry on their journey toward ordination. In addition, the BOM oversees the submission of annual pastors’ reports, encourages lifelong learning, and supports all ministers in their continuing education.
“We walk alongside those called to ministry—encouraging, preparing, and guiding them from training to lifelong growth.”
The Board operates according to the Church of the Nazarene Manual (see sections 205.16–205.18; 229–234.1; 500–502.6; 523–532.13).
What We Do
The Board of Ministry oversees:
– Continuing Education (lifelong learning for all ministers)
– Licensing & Credentialing (local, district, ordination)
– Ministerial Education (course of study, training, record keeping)
– Candidate Assessment (workshops, interviews, mentoring)
The Board is made up of two teams:
– Ministerial Studies Board – reviews district license and applications, interviews candidates help candidates enroll in and complete the Validated Course of Study (VCOS), keeps records, and encourages ongoing education.
– Ministerial Credentials Board – Evaluates and affirms the calling of a candidate. Reviews district license and ordination applications, interviews candidates, and makes recommendations to the District Assembly.
Answering the Call to Ministry God has put on your Life
If you believe God is calling you to ministry, here are the main steps:
- Talk with Your Pastor– share your call and begin the process locally.
- Local License– granted by your local church board at your pastor’s recommendation.
- District License– requires at least one year with a local license, completion of at least five courses from a VCOS (Nazarene History & Polity being one), and attendance at the Board of Ministry day for the interview.
- Annual Interviews– each year the Board of Ministry meets with candidates to review progress.
- Ordination (Elder or Deacon)– granted when studies, service, and readiness are complete, and the District Assembly recommends it.
You have up to 10 years from your first district license to complete your course of study.
Click on the Link Below
Education & Training
- All ministers must complete a Validated Course of Study (VCOS)—the official preparation for ordination.
- This training develops four areas: Content, Competency, Context, and Character.
District Programs
- Southern Florida Nazarene Bible Institute (SFNBI) – English and other languages as needed
- Centro de Educacion Ministerial Hispano (CEMH) – Spanish-language program
Additional Nazarene Options
Nazarene Bible College – Ministry Preparation (non-degree) Nazarene Course of Study (NCOS)
Northwest Nazarene University – Nazarene Course of Study (NCOS)
Mount Vernon Nazarene University – Certificate of Ministry Preparation, Nazarene Course of Study (NCOS)
Trevecca Nazarene University – Nazarene Course of Study (NCOS), Certificate of Ministry Preparation
SENDAS – Seminario Nazareno de las Américas (Spanish)
ETNS – Haitian-language studies
Lifelong Learning Nazarene Options
Ordained and licensed ministers must also complete annual Lifelong Learning Credits (Manual 521.6; 523; 530.18).
Institute for Ministry Enrichment
Candidate Assessment & Mentoring
Annual Interviews – review your studies, theology, calling, and ministry experience each year.
Mentoring – pastors and mentors walk with candidates to encourage and guide their journey.
Candidate Workshop / Assessment Weekend – The Southern Florida district is developing this for the 2027 District Assembly year
Forms & Applications
Click on the Links Below
Downloads
Communication & Contact
For questions about:
- Licensing & Credentialing – Contact the Dr. Scott Porter, District Secretary. Email Dr. Scott Porter
- Education / Ministerial Studies – Contact Rev. Rebecca Garner, Secretary of the Ministerial Studies Board. Email Pastor Rebecca Garner
- Assessment Weekend: District Office (Assessment Coordinator). Email District Office
- Not sure? Ask Dr. Scott Porter, District Secretary, and we’ll connect you with the right person.
Click on the Link Below
Resources
Church of the Nazarene Manual 2023
Global Clergy Development – Sourcebook on Ordination
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What’s the difference between an Elder and a Deacon?
Deacon – Called to ministries of service, compassion, and support (often chaplaincy, specialized ministries, or staff roles).
Both are full ordination tracks in the Church of the Nazarene.
Elder – Called to preach, lead, and shepherd a congregation.
How long does it take to be ordained?
Most candidates spend 8–10 years moving from local license → district license → ordination. This includes education, interviews, ministry service, and assessment.
Do I need a degree to be ordained?
No. A Validated Course of Study (VCOS) is required, but this does not always mean a college degree. Some courses are offered through district programs or online Nazarene schools.
What is the Candidate Assessment Weekend?
It’s a required workshop/retreat for new candidates seeking their first district license. Candidates are evaluated in areas of calling, character, ministry readiness, and spiritual formation. This is currently under development.
Who do I talk to first if I feel called to ministry?
Start with your local pastor. They will guide you through the first steps (including applying for a Local License) and connect you with the Board of Ministry when the time is right.
How many courses do I need before I can apply for a district license?
You must have completed at least one-fourth of your Course of Study (5 courses, including Church History and Polity), plus hold a Local License for at least one year.
How often do I meet with the Board of Ministry?
Once a year. These annual interviews help track your progress, encourage growth, and confirm your call to ministry.
What is “Lifelong Learning”?
Even after ordination, all ministers are required to complete Lifelong Learning Credits each year to stay sharp, relevant, and accountable in ministry.
Who do I contact if I have questions?
Not sure? Ask the District Secretary, and we’ll connect you with the right person.
Licensing / Credentialing: Dr. Scott Porter, District Secretary
Education / Classes: Rev. Rebecca Garner Ministerial Studies Secretary
Assessment Weekend: District Office (Assessment Coordinator)
