United Methodist Probationary Process

In the United Methodist Church, pastors in the first three years of ministry take part in a "probationary process" to help them achieve effectiveness in ministry through:

• Supervision
• Mentoring
• Continuing education
• Covenant groups

The Lewis Center has conducted extensive research on the probationary process and advises denominational and conference leaders on how to implement successful probationary programs.

The Lewis Center also offers continuing education programs tailored to the needs of probationers. In partnership with the Board of Ordained Ministry of the Baltimore-Washington Conference, the Lewis Center offers a three-year program of continuing education specifically designed to meet the needs of those who are new to ministry.

The Journey
from Readiness to Effectiveness