Synodically Authorized Ministers (SAM)
In the News
Synodically Authorized Ministers (SAMs):
SAM Qualifications
In accordance with the ELCA Rostered Minister Manual Section 7.31.10,
A person invited to prepare for a synod-authorized ministry must be an active member of an ELCA congregation, preferably for at least one year. (The synod bishop may approve an exception to this rule if the individual is a member of a full communion partner congregation or ordained in another tradition.)
In addition, prior to preparing to serve in synod-authorized ministry, an individual must have:
- been recommended by the individual’s pastor and Congregation Council;
- met with and been interviewed by synod staff and/or the synod committee responsible for the synod’s program of preparation;
- demonstrated the ability and willingness to participate in a program of preparation leading to possible service in a synod-authorized ministry or provided satisfactory evidence of prior preparation toward the goals and standards of the program outlined in this policy;
- submitted written responses to the questions similar to those on the candidacy Entrance Form; and
- obtained an in-depth background check, as outlined in the Candidacy Manual.
Application Process
- Schedule a time to meet with Rev. Diana Linden (dlinden@rmselca.org), RMS Synod Minister for Rostered and Lay Leadership, or fill out the interest form below.
- Be in conversation with your pastor, deacon and congregation council about your interest in serving as a Synodically Authorized Minister (SAM).
- Complete an online application, including a statement of your involvement in your congregation and why you feel called to serve as a lay leader at this time.
- Ask your congregation council president and pastor or deacon to each submit a written references on your behalf.
- In partnership with your congregation, submit a $750 application fee by clicking https://www.rmselca.org/give and selecting "SAM Application Fee” from the dropdown menu.
- Complete a comprehensive background check and psychological evaluation. This information will be emailed to you after we receive your application and application fee.
- Participate in an interview with leaders from the RMS.
- Commit to work with an ELCA mentor pastor, complete required classes, and participate in ongoing formation.
Matthew Heitmann is one of six Synodically Authorized Ministers (SAMs) serving as a pastoral team at St. Paul Lutheran in Calhan, CO.
SAM Formation (steps occur concurrently)
- Complete classes through an approved ELCA seminary or RMS synod training program in the areas of:
- Old and New Testament
- Lutheran Theology & Confessions
- Worship & Sacramental Theology
- Spiritual Discernment & Faith Development
- Leadership Expectations & Identity
- Preaching
- Pastoral Care & Visitation
- Healthy Boundaries
- Meet regularly with a SAM mentor, usually an ordained ELCA pastor, for regular support and formation.
- Participate in yearly, in person SAM retreat for continuing education, community building & support.
Living Stones Lay Ministry Classes
6-week Bible Course
The Rock Mountain Synod's Synodically Authorized Ministry program, Living Stones, is offering the first Bible course beginning June 25. Classes will run for six weeks from 6:30-8:00pm MT and will be held exclusively online. The focus of this class is the first five books of the Old Testament and the Gospels and is the first in a 2-part series of Bible classes in the Living Stones curriculum.
The cost for participants who are in rural or small town communities is $25 and for all other participants is $50.
Register for the course here
Any questions may be directed to Pastor Katie Emery (kemery@excellenceinleadership.org)
Learn More about SAMs
Fill out the form below to connect with Rev. Diana Linden, Synod Minister for Rostered and Lay Leadership.
