Background
The present standards for ordination in GRR (consistent with the recommendations of ABCUSA) accept three “tracks” for ministerial education. Track I is the “typical” pattern of BA plus Master of Divinity. Track II is a very atypical, and rarely used, pattern of experiential equivalence. Track III allows for regionally-recognized education patterns.
The Regional Licensure and Ordination Program (RLO) grew out of older certified lay ministry programs and was finalized by the GRR Board of Managers in 1991. In that program, the Region maintains and distributes ten audio/visual-based self-instruction courses. Some of those courses are purchased for redistribution. Consistent with provisions in Recommended Procedures prepared by the Ministers Council and the Ministerial Leadership Commission in 1994, the Great Rivers
Region put RLO under the umbrella of Track III. This is only an educational alternative, all other requirements still apply. After over ten years of experience with RLO, it has become evident that some changes are necessary. COMSAO has reviewed options, shared information and solicited responses from staff, and made this proposal to the Regional Ministry Board.