Give
Endorsement

Required items for endorsement.

Once you’ve connected with the endorsement liaison for your region, use this list to prepare everything the Committee on Specialized Ministries will consider.

  • Your endorsement liaison will guide you through the process and make sure you have every form you need.
  • You’re responsible for gathering the documents on time. The Committee on Specialized Ministries and the Circle of Directors review applications three times a year: February, July and November. Your liaison can tell you the current deadline.
  • When you ask people or institutions for letters or transcripts, give them plenty of time to respond.
Next endorsement materials deadline

January 19, 2027

Expect to hear from the Circle about a month after the deadline.

  • Application and payment

    Submit your application and payment online through Realm. Fees are listed on Dues & fees.

  • Life history

    A succinct life history showing how the events and relationships of your life have prepared and moved you to minister in this specialized setting. At least three pages; you can update your CPE Life History Statement.

  • Faith history

    A paper describing your faith journey, two to three pages. You can update your CPE Faith Journey Statement.

  • Statement of ministerial understanding

    Your understanding of ministry, especially in the setting for which you’re seeking endorsement. At least one page.

  • Representative of FCM

    A paper on what it means to you to represent FCM in this ministry setting. Up to two pages.

  • Four letters of recommendation

    From your FCM Regional Vice President, your FCM Ministerial Colleague, and two other people familiar with your ministry. Include each reference’s full name, title and contact information. If you’re actively in ministry, one should be your manager or supervisor, who can speak to your practice of ministry and your ability to meet the certifying body’s requirements.

  • CPE evaluations

    Not required, but extremely helpful to the interview and to the Committee’s recommendation. Send your own and your supervisor or educator’s evaluations from your first unit and your latest unit.

  • Local interview committee report

    • The Presenter’s Report.
    • A Narrative Report: the Recorder’s notes on the interview, touching on the Six Interview Guidelines for readiness, with your strengths and limitations and any pastoral or growth recommendations for the Committee on Specialized Ministries and the Circle.
    • The completed Specialized Ministries Regional Interview Committee Endorsement Report.
    • A signed copy of the Guidelines for Examination of Applicants from each committee member.

  • College and seminary transcripts

    Transcripts showing the graduate-level theological education, or its equivalent, that your certifying organization requires. Ask your endorsement liaison where to send them.

  • Consent and declaration

    A signed copy of the Consent and Declaration statements. Download the form (PDF).

The full policy is in the Endorsement Polity Manual.