Clergy FAQs
How is the Connection governed?
Each church sends two representatives (one elder, one deacon) to serve on the Connectional Council, which meets annually and as needed to guide the network. No matter the size of the local church, every church in the Connection has an equal voice and vote. An executive team of President, Vice President, Secretary, and Treasurer was elected at the Annual Gathering.
How is accountability handled?
Ordained elders, deacons (lay members), and local churches commit to shared doctrinal and ethical standards. When needed, the Connection will offer support, guidance, and—if necessary— disciplinary processes outlined in the governing documents.
How does ordination work?
Ordination is a spiritual and communal process based on: A call to ministry (discerned in community by the local church), doctrinal alignment, character and competency, and the submission of a Candidate Portfolio (including sermons, theology reflections, etc.). The process includes mentoring, discernment, and a formal ordination service. The ordination service takes place in the local church.
What does “connectional life” look like?
It includes shared worship events, leadership and ministry training, opportunities to collaborate on missions, youth events, church planting, etc., and an annual gathering for the Connection centered on worship, learning, and fellowship.
Can pastors ordained in other denominations join?
Yes. The Connection has a transfer process that reviews prior ordination, doctrinal alignment, and ministry experience.
Do pastors need a seminary degree?
No. While theological education is encouraged, ordination is based on spiritual maturity, sound doctrine, and leadership ability—not on formal credentials alone. All elders in the Connection are expected to pursue a lifelong love of learning and education and are encouraged to find educational opportunities that address the needs of their unique missional context.
Clergy Membership Application
The Antioch Connection offers clear and supportive pathways for those called to ministry. These processes are designed to affirm your call, safeguard doctrinal alignment, and strengthen our shared mission.If you sense that God may be leading you toward ministry within the Antioch Connection, we invite you to take the next step by completing the simple contact form below. Completing this form does not begin a formal ordination process or commit you to anything—it simply opens the door for a conversation. One of our leaders will follow up with you to answer questions, explain the process, and help you discern which pathway may be the right fit for you.We especially want to encourage pastors who have faithfully served in ministry but have not yet been formally ordained. The Antioch Connection deeply values the experience, wisdom, and proven ministry of pastors who have been laboring in the field for years. Whether you are already ordained, currently serving in ministry without ordination, or simply beginning to explore God’s call, we welcome your questions. Our hope is to remove any uncertainty or hesitation you may feel about reaching out. The best first step is simply starting the conversation.Complete the contact form below, and let’s begin exploring together what God may be calling you to next.
Open Clergy within Antioch Churches
Pastor, Stigler Methodist Church
Sitgler, Oklahoma
Connections Pastor, First Methodist Church Jonesboro
Jonesboro, Arkansas
Executive Pastor, Christ Church on Harvard
Tulsa, Oklahoma
*Please contact churches directly for inquires.