“Then I heard the voice of the Lord saying, “Whom shall I send? And who will go for us?” And I said, “Here am I. Send me!” -Isaiah 6:8

On January 29 – January 31, 72 members of the West Ohio Conference Board of Ordained Ministry (BOM) responded to their call and participated in the annual Interviews for those requesting credentials in the United Methodist Church.

Prior to meeting with the BOM, candidates must participate in the Candidacy Summit, complete or be attending Seminary, and receive approval from their District Superintendents and Cabinet Boards.

Once invited to the interview, Candidates must complete certain requirements which include responding to Disciplinary Questions, designing a bible study, writing, and recording a Sermon on prescribed texts, submitting a background and credit check, a completed medical statement, and have recommendations from specific references. These requirements help to provide a sense to the level of commitment and investment made on behalf of all those who are pursuing credentials in the UMC.

The 2023 Interviews were the first in-person since 2020 and were led under the leadership of the Rev. Dr. Suzanne Allen; Rev. Meshach Kanyion, and Rev. Steve Putka. This process involved a thorough reading of the file for each Candidate and an interview to demonstrate readiness for ministry. The Candidates were well prepared and were able to display their abilities to continue leading in the places God has called them.

The Celebration of Ministry Service which will include Commissioning and Ordination will take place during Annual Conference in June 2023. The service will be livestreamed and will allow for a wide range of people to view and support those who are being credentialed. Your continued support and encouragement for all those seeking ministry credentials is greatly appreciated. Please pray for all those who interviewed. Also, please remember to celebrate those whose requests were affirmed. Their names are listed here.

Affirmed Provisional & Full Deacons

Affirmed Provisional & Full Elders