Synod Authorized Minister

Individuals under consideration for Synod Authorized Ministry (SAM) in Northwestern Ohio Synod go through a vetting process that includes a formal application and an interview with the Synod Candidacy Coordinator and Synod Director for Congregational Care.

Should gifts be evident and a context available, an interview is then had with Bishop. Following Bishop approval, a congregational form for endorsement and two written references are requested along with a background check.

Information is then forwarded to Synod Council for approval of appointment to serve for a period of one year.

NWOS SAMs begin their training with a 5 week (2 hours per week, total 10 hours) basic course which includes:

• Introduction/Orientation with Bishop
• Preaching
• Sacraments
• Administration
• Pastoral Care

In addition to these classes, NWOS SAMs continue their education in Seminary or in our Diakonia Lay Education Program.

Additional required education includes Boundary Training and CPE for SAMs (Specially designed for SAMs)

Monthly check-ins with Synod Staff are required. These group check-ins also include continuing education in the areas of: Funerals, Pre-Marriage Counseling, Annual Reports, Lent, Baptism, Worship, Media Boundaries, Traditions and other topics as needed.

A supervisor is assigned to each SAM. Involvement in a pericope study group is encouraged.

Synod engagement through attending Affirmation of Vows, Rostered Minister Gathering, Assembly and Fall Gatherings and other Synod events is encouraged.

Synod Council Appointment is reviewed each fall after receipt of the required reporting forms from the SAM, SAM Supervisor and Council of context serving.

SAM
Guidelines

SAM Resources

SAM Renewal Forms

When filling out SAM renewal forms, please download form to your computer. 

SAVE with your name (YourNameSamCovenant, YourNameSamSupervisorEval, YourNameSelfEval, YourNameCongEval), fill out and save again, then send via email to cheryl.sondergeld@nwos-elca.org

SAM Supervisor Evaluation of SAMs

ELCA Congregational Report

SAMs are also responsible for an ELCA Congregational Report and a SAM Annual Report.  These forms are not posted here.  They will be sent to each SAM via email in early 2025 with directions on how to complete and submit.