Extraordinary Lutheran Ministries (ELM) is committed to the full participation of persons of all sexual orientations and gender identities in the life and ministry of the Lutheran church.
Candidacy and Credentialing
Formed in 1993 as The Extraordinary Candidacy Project (ECP), the Candidacy and Credentialling Ellipse of ELM oversees the candidacy and credentialing of Lutherans of all sexual orientations and gender identities seeking admission on the ELM roster of pastors and lay leaders.
Extraordinary Lutheran Ministries (ELM) is an association defined by our transparency and authenticity. We are creating a way of being church in the world that does not require those called to ministry to lie, forget, ignore, or pretend about who they are, who they love, and how they wish to serve in ministry.
Admission to the Roster
Our roster is open to persons regardless of their sexual orientation or gender identities. All persons who can demonstrate that they are “in jeopardy” because of policies of discrimination against LGBT people or practices of intimidation or untruth in Lutheran church bodies around the world are invited to make application for admission to candidacy with the ELM. Individuals may choose to put themselves “in jeopardy” by resigning from the roster of the Lutheran church body they are affiliated with. Other individuals may choose to be dually rostered with ELM and the Lutheran church body they are affiliated with. All roster members are expected to follow the guidelines in the ELM Candidacy and Credentialing Manual.
Roster Affiliates
We are in the process of creating a new gathering within our community. Persons of all sexual orientations and gender identities who are in solidarity with the ELM, the roster and its mission, but who are not currently “in jeopardy” because of the policies of discrimination, will be invited to apply as roster affiliates. Seminarians will not be allowed to become affiliates. Affiliates are expected to follow the guidelines outlined in the ELM Policy and Procedure Manual.
For More Information
If you would like to learn more about how ELM Candidacy and Credentialing might be of help to you, we encourage you to contact us. All inquiries are private. If you request more information, you will be put in touch with a person who can provide counsel and advice. You will not be pressured to make any decision you do not wish to make. Our task, should you contact us, is to be of assistance as you choose the path most appropriate for you.
For further information about the CCE please contact:
Fred Wolfe, Philadelphia, PA
e-mail: candidacy@elm.org
Candidacy and Credentialing Manual
(pdf, html)
Transfer/Dual Roster Forms
Pastors/Rostered Leaders
Candidacy Forms
Application Materials (pdf, doc)
Entrance
Endorsement
Approval