Credentials

Why credentials?

To some extent, carrying credentials is like a badge of loyalty. But even more than that, it’s a symbol that validates your calling and challenges you to walk worthy of it.

To be a credentialed minister is more than the legal privilege to marry and bury; it’s an incentivized opportunity to locate the target and eventually launch into the deep.

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As a credentialed minister, you'll be able to say...

I'm celebrated by a global denomination

As a global Movement with a presence in more than 71 nations, the Pentecostal Church of God desires to affirm you in your calling. Not only will we help you identify and clarify exactly what your calling is, but we intend to celebrate you along the way.

I'm mentored by a network of coaches

One thing we hear often is that the Pentecostal Church of God feels more like a family than a denomination. We've worked hard to develop a culture where we intentionally connect ministers through meaningful relationships and mentoring / coaching opportunities.

I'm equipped for the work of ministry

We know from Scripture that spiritual leaders are called to "equip the saints for the work of ministry" (Eph. 4:11-14). So, interestingly, our task is to equip you in order that you might equip others. To do that, our credential process fosters a learning environment conducive to personal study, classroom study, and hands-on experience.

I'm sent to make an eternal impact

As a global Movement, we have a plethora of available resources and ministry opportunities. Therefore, depending on your unique interests and desires, our hope is to assist in the process of commissioning ministers to a place of fruitfulness—whether that be on the mission field, local church, or in the marketplace.

What are my opportunities for promotion?

The Pentecostal Church of God offers credentials at three different levels. Each is designed uniquely to suit varying levels of Christian service. Attaining or advancing to a new level depends on one's education and experience in the field of ministry.

Level 1: Exhorter

Locate the Target

As this is the introductory level of credentials, we expect ministers, whether in full-time vocational ministry or not, to actively advance in faith and serve the local church while exploring their gifts and calling in a safe environment. After a period of one year and continued study, exhorter ministers may apply for promotion.

Monthly Fee: $30

Level 2: Licensed

Lock Eyes with Mission

Those licensed by the Pentecostal Church of God exhibit a definite call by God, having already identified their spiritual gifts and practiced them in the context of Christian service. Licensed ministers actively pursue vocational ministry, being eligible for promotion after a period of two years and continued study.

Monthly Fee: $30

Level 3: Ordained

Launch into the Deep

Ordination is considered the highest goal in the credentialing process. Ministers are commissioned with the full support and authority of the PCG. Though ordained ministers are not required to serve in full-time vocational roles, we expect desire to remain active in ministry in whatever capacity that may be.

Monthly Fee: $30

Forerunner Experience

FXP is a flexible online learning community designed to help young adults (ages 17-30) take their first steps into ministry. In 12 weeks, journey from Genesis to Revelation, discover your identity in Christ, and learn to walk worthy of your calling.

Expected Cost:

$99 + one book

Time Frame:

12 weeks (spring or fall)

Age Group:

17-30 years

Medium:

Online + Video Chat

Credential:

Exhorter (equivalency)

Learn More >

Online Study Series

All three credential levels are now available online. Offering a series of 21 comprehensive courses (7 per level), this option incorporates various articles and video instruction from expert scholars in fields of leadership and biblical studies.

Expected Cost:

$25 / course + books

Time Frame:

At learner's pace

Age Group:

Any (17+)

Medium:

Online Only

Credential:

Exhorter / Licensed / Ordained

LEARN MORE >

Traditional Study Series

If you're the kind of person who prefers putting pen to paper, we still have the traditional study option available. Along with reading the textbooks, you can also fill out the printed study guides and complete the accompanying exams by hand.

Expected Cost:

Textbooks only

Time Frame:

At learner's pace

Age Group:

Any (17+)

Medium:

Paper only

Credential:

Exhorter / Licensed / Ordained

VIEW STUDY MATERIALS >

Wondering about the process? You may be ready to submit your application

To receive Ministry Credentials at any level with the Pentecostal Church of God, individuals must complete various educational requirements and undergo an application process. Upon receipt of the application, a date for an interview will be set by the district officials, and upon their recommendation, the application will be forwarded to the International Mission Center for final approval.

* Unsure which district you're part of? View boundary lines >

** Need help finding your district's contact info? View the directory >

1) Complete the Minister's
Study Series

Before receiving credentials, ministers at every level are required to first complete the Minister’s Study Series (either the traditional or online method), which involves a particular set of readings and accompanying review questions, or equivalent. The exhorter series emphasizes biblical studies and theology, while the licensed and ordained series dive deeper into spiritual formation and ministerial leadership. All ministers must also be familiar with current PCG bylaws.

Equivalency options may include the Forerunner Experience (Exhorter only) or an undergraduate degree at Messenger College or other Spirit-filled Bible college / university.

View Book Lists and Details >

2) Fill Out the Application and Attached Forms

Upon completion of the Minister’s Study Series, individuals may fill out an application and submit directly to their state or district office. Unique forms are attached in the link to accommodate specific situations.

(a) New applicants - must complete the Application for Minister’s Credentials,
(b) Previous applicants - must complete the Application for Reinstatement
(c) Current ministers seeking promotion - must complete the Application for Promotion.

Please fill out every relevant and applicable form (i.e. felony or divorce), and take care to include the pastoral reference letter.

Apply Now >

3) Submit Forms and Fees to District Office

Along with the application, forms, and pastoral reference, please also include a check or money order made out to the Pentecostal Church of God. Application forms and fees should be mailed to the appropriate district office (click here to view the directory).

Fees include: $25 for background checks (some geographical areas, such as New York, may be slightly higher) plus $90 advance payment (covering the first three months).

If for some reason the application is denied, $60 will be refunded to the applicant, while the remaining $55 will be retained for processing charges. Messenger College and Forerunner students are exempt from these application and processing fees for a limited time.

Submit Payment Online >

Minister's Credential Applications & Forms Forerunner: Exhorter Application & Forms

Credentials

The process of becoming a licensed minister with the Pentecostal Church of God has never been simpler, and we're improving every day.

Why credentials?

As a credentialed minister, you'll be able to say...

I'm celebrated by a global denomination

I'm mentored by a network of coaches

I'm equipped for the work of ministry

I'm sent to make an eternal impact

What are my opportunities for promotion?

Level 1: Exhorter

Level 2: Licensed

Level 3: Ordained

Your Study Options

Wondering about the process? You may be ready to submit your application

1) Complete the Minister'sStudy Series

2) Fill Out the Application and Attached Forms

3) Submit Forms and Fees to District Office

Store

About

Missions

Ministries

International Mission Center

1) Complete the Minister's
Study Series