Ordained ministers in good standing in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) or in The United Church of Canada may apply to the United Church of Christ for Ordained Ministerial Partner Standing (OMPS). A minister should begin the process of applying for OMPS prior to searching for a congregation in which to serve.
Ordained ministers in the Disciples of Christ should apply for OMPS in the Association where they are geographically located. Ordained ministers in The United Church of Canada should apply for OMPS to a United Church of Christ Association where they anticipate seeking a call.
When applying for OMPS, is expected that the minister can verify good standing with their originating denomination, can articulate the history, theology and polity differences between the two denominations, can demonstrate capacity to function in and appreciate the UCC, and is familiar with the UCC Ministerial Code and the Marks of Faithful and Effective Authorized Ministers. These expectations are demonstrated to the Committee on Ministry during the Ordained Ministerial Partner Standing application process and in conversation with the Committee. When submitting your application, please compile all forms into a single PDF document and send as one file.
Application
Application for Ordained Ministerial Partner Standing
Essential OMPS Resources
UCC History, Polity, and Theology
Explore more about what it is to be UCC and enroll in a course that will meet the requirements for Ordained Ministerial Partner Standing.
All persons seeking ministerial standing in the United Church of Christ are required take boundary awareness training for clergy
The Marks of Faithful and Effective Authorized Ministers of the UCC
An outline of the complex combination of talents, understandings, and skills needed for ministerial leadership in the United Church of Christ.
All persons with ministerial standing in the United Church of Christ are expected to abide by the UCC Ministerial Code.
Background Checks
Access the forms you need to help ensure safe, hospitable, and just environments in our congregations and ministry settings.