How does one know when the call to ministry is valid and true to the individual?  How does one know the correct way to obtain an ordination, become a minister or cleric and join or establish a church or ministry?

If we look to the religious establishments, we  find  a variety of accredited paths to follow in order to grow intellectually and spiritually and obtain the necessary education and training to answer spiritual callings.  These paths are authentic and valid and require years of study at accredited universities.  There is much to be learned about God, humankind, spirituality, religion and service, and traditional education provides a way to challenge students while providing them with the tools and knowledge necessary to be of spiritual service to their religious denomination.

On the other hand, it is not difficult to become an ordained minister, instantly.  On line ordinations provide an avenue for the not-so-traditional spiritual seeker to answer their spiritual calling, but does that alone make it valid?   I would contend that validity is in the eye of the beholder.

Consider the following: 

• A woman  is inspired to paint beautiful portraits.  She has never had an art lesson but is simply inspired to express her creative spirit and genius in this way.  Many are inspired by gazing upon these beautiful pieces of art and some are encouraged to begin their own attempts at painting.
  
• A  man  can masterfully play any musical instrument you place in front of him, yet he has never had a lesson in music. He is simply inspired to express his creative spirit and genius in this way.  Many are encouraged and inspired just by listening to the beautiful music he plays.  Some model his behaviors by learning to play musical instruments themselves.
  
• A man and a woman go about their lives ministering to those in need.  They have never attended a formal seminary and have no higher education.  They are simply inspired to minister, heart and soul, to those in need and they express their creative spirit and genius in this way.  Many are healed and inspired by their acts of kindness and some are drawn to dedicate their lives to service as well.
  

What differences are there between the three samples above?   Should the artist and the musician cease to express their gifts of grace because they did not complete a required course of study?  Should the man and woman cease to minister because they have not completed a required course of study?    And would the required course of study alter the free gift of grace and talent each has received?

Some gifts are innate and from the Spirit.  They are acts of grace that are often expressed  without explanation.  If viewed in this light, restrictions placed upon innate callings would seem to be counter to the highest fulfillment of the gifts of grace.

We would love to hear your thoughts about this important topic.   Please, let us know what you think.

Please note:  The Ministerial Seminary of America, LLC will not post judgmental or hateful responses.  Please make sure your entry contributes to the overall understanding of this topic by those who read it.  Thank you.