An Examination of Current Practices Pertaining to The Call and Public Ministry

Abstract

Forrest L. Bivens’ essay examines contemporary practices within the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod (WELS) regarding the divine call and public ministry. Presented in 1998, the paper addresses procedural flexibility in issuing, deliberating, and terminating calls, while emphasizing scriptural qualifications and the role of the Holy Spirit. Bivens explores concerns about candidate evaluations, call permanence, resignation reasons, and the use of terms like “ministry” and “minister.” He cautions against practices that may undermine trust in divine guidance or blur distinctions between public ministry and the priesthood of all believers. The essay includes practical tools such as a sample pastoral call letter and a parish needs assessment form. Throughout, Bivens urges clarity, humility, and Christ-centered service, reminding readers that ministry is a gracious calling to serve with the gospel. The paper encourages ongoing reflection and faithful application of biblical principles in a changing church landscape. Abstract generated by Microsoft Copilot (GPT-4).