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Discovering, developing and deploying new generations of transformational leaders across Elim

  elim.org.uk/ministry

Is God stirring something in you? Whether you are just beginning to sense a calling or you are ready to take the next step, this page will help you understand what Elim Ministry is, what it asks of you, and how to begin.

What we look for Life as an MIT How to apply

Called to more

Christian ministry is participation in the ongoing work of Christ - joining in what He is doing today, by the power of the Spirit. From the earliest days of Elim, men and women have answered that call: planting churches, reaching communities, and leading movements. That vision is as alive today as ever.

We are looking for courageous, flexible, navigational leaders who carry Elim's DNA and can find a way through new terrain - transforming churches and the communities around them. Today, Elim ministers serve as pastors, evangelists, pioneers, missionaries, chaplains, and in specialist roles that strengthen both local churches and our Movement nationally.

ministry
Crystal Palace

"Now, these are the gifts Christ gave to the Church: the apostles, the prophets, the evangelists, and the pastors and teachers. Their responsibility is to equip God's people to do His work and build up the Church, the body of Christ." Ephesians 4:11

We ordain women and men into church ministry on the same basis, through the same training and discernment process, held to the same standards. We believe God gifts men and women equally into positions of church leadership at every level.

Discovering

If you are sensing a call, it's likely something persistent - a sense of compulsion that others around you are starting to notice too. That inner prompting, confirmed by your leaders, family or church community, is where discernment begins.

A few things worth knowing before you apply:

  • An Elim credential is not required to serve
    You don't need ministry credentials to lead or contribute in your local church. Elim believes in releasing all believers to use their gifts wherever God has placed them.
  • It's recognition within Elim, not just of you
    An Elim credential recognises your ministry within our Movement — in service of the wider vision of Elim, not simply your individual calling.
  • It takes time - intentionally so
    Preparation for ministry is a season of significant spiritual, personal and theological formation. It is not designed to be quick, but it is designed to be formative.
Talk


We have created a detailed guide for applicants and pastors to help with discerning your call to ministry. Please read through it before you continue.

What we look for

Talking
Talking

What are the benchmarks for those applying to the Elim Ministry Academy?

  • A connection to Elim
    We only accept candidates that have an established connection to Elim, either through attending a UK Elim church, Regents Bible college, or being an Elim Missionary (For this reason we do not accept overseas candidates or issue work visas.)
     
  • Attendance at an 'Exploring the Elim Ministry' seminar
    Seminars take place throughout the year. Dates will be confirmed after you complete the online registration form.
     
  • Commitment to Elim's ethos, vision and values
    Your application should demonstrate a genuine desire to contribute to Elim as a Movement — not only to a single local church.
     
  • A proven track record of ministry in the local church
    Candidates should have been in committed involvement in an Elim church for a minimum of two years, leading a ministry or serving as a key member of a ministry team.
     
  • Personal experience of the Holy Spirit
    Applicants must affirm Elim's belief in the baptism of the Holy Spirit, be able to articulate the biblical basis for it, and demonstrate the ability to lead others into a deeper work of the Spirit.
     
  • Foundational studies in Biblical theology and leadership
    Some theological study prior to application is expected. Where no recognised Bible School qualification is held, applicants will be required to complete the Elim Ministry Foundation Certificate, accredited by Regents Theological College (RTC).
     
  • Evidence of Christian maturity and healthy relationships
    We look at interpersonal skills and the ability to sustain healthy relationships - in marriage, the home, the wider community and with local church leadership.
     
  • A reference from your local Elim church
    We will request a reference from the lead pastor of your Elim church, on behalf of the local leadership team, in support of your call to ministry.
Academy

The pathway

Once accepted as a Minister in Training, you'll begin a three-year training programme, commencing upon appointment to an Elim church or ministry. All successful applicants will complete an Induction course, where you'll receive full detail on the programme.
Application Pathway

Developing

As a Minister in Training, you will be supervised and mentored while serving in a church, full or part-time. Here's how it works:
  • Supervising
    A Supervisor ensures you gain experience across every area of ministry.
  • Mentoring
    A Mentor walks alongside you to offer support, counsel and encouragement.
  • Reporting
    Pastoral reports every three months help us support and care for you well.
  • Reflecting
    A Portfolio completed over three years records evidence of your ministry experience and invites you to reflect on what you're learning.
  • Attending
    You'll attend both the Elim Summit (May) and the MIT Conference (June) every year.
  • Ordination
    On successful completion of your portfolio and ordination interview, you are nominated for ordination at the Business Conference held during the following year’s Elim Leaders Summit.
Typical MIT Journey

Register for the next Exploring Elim Ministry seminar

Register your interest using the online form and we will be in touch about upcoming seminars and next steps.

  Register online now


All enquiries regarding the Elim Ministry are processed through the office of the General Superintendent, under the supervision of the Director of Ministry, Stuart Blount.