Ordination is the process by which the church places individuals into the office of the ministry. It is very similar to being granted a terminal academic degree. In the American Association of Lutheran Churches ordination is granted to men who have gone through extensive theological education, been examined by a board of pastors and laypeople alike, considered by the AALC executive committee, the ruling council of the organization, and have passed on all levels. Upon ordination to pastoral ministry, the pastor is granted the authority to preach, teach, and administer the Sacraments in local churches.
The roots of ordination to pastoral ministry are normally identified in the New Testament in 1 Timothy chapter 3 and in Titus chapter 1. Biblically, the term “elder” seems to be used as a synonym for “bishop” or “overseer.” The term “pastor” is less frequently used as a noun, though the verbal forms are fairly common. The elder performs the task of pastoring God’s flock.
The roots of ordination to pastoral ministry are normally identified in the New Testament in 1 Timothy chapter 3 and in Titus chapter 1. Biblically, the term “elder” seems to be used as a synonym for “bishop” or “overseer.” The term “pastor” is less frequently used as a noun, though the verbal forms are fairly common. The elder performs the task of pastoring God’s flock.
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