Credentialing Documents

We require that all pastoral staff in BC Mennonite Brethren churches complete the credentialing process within one year of beginning their ministry in an MB Church. The timing of the interview varies from one congregation to the next: some congregations prefer the credentialing process be completed as part of the hiring process itself; others encourage staff to initiate the process as soon as possible after hiring. In some instances, individuals seeking employment in a Mennonite Brethren church seek approval prior to candidating in a congregation. The typical steps to follow are outlined below.

Please note the following details carefully!

A. Because of the length of these documents, it could take a few months to complete them, and book you in an interview. If you are planning to follow through with this process, please let us know as soon as you begin your work so you can be put on the waiting list for interviews.

B. Contact the office if you have any questions.
1. Download the 3 credentialing forms (links at the bottom of this page). They are in Microsoft Word format so you may complete them on your computer and send them back via email to the executive assistant.

2. Let us know you have downloaded the forms and would like to be on the list for interview notification.

All documentation must be submitted to the Conference office in full one month before the proposed interview date in order to confirm the appointment.  Please note that inclusion is on a first-come first-served basis.  Once all documents have been received and processed, we will confirm the exact time and place of the interview with you. 

3. Attend the interview on time. Please note that, if applicable, your spouse and senior pastor are required to attend the interview with you. Each interview is about 1 1/2 hours.

4. Once your interview is completed, based on the recommendation of the PMC, you will be credentialed with the BC Conference of MB Churches, and licensed with the Government of BC. This license will give you the authority to marry within BC only, and you will be considered a member of the clergy.

If your congregation is interested in going one step further and would like to recommend you for ordination, the moderator will need to send a letter to the BC Conference of MB Churches (attention to Rob Thiessen, Conference Minister) requesting your ordination. This request will be considered and your file will be reviewed. Further instructions will be given.