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
SAM Mentor Training Registration
This training is intended for rostered ministers who are interested or who are currently acting as mentors for one or more Synodically Authorized Ministers (SAMs). The training will be September 28 before Theological Conference begins.
Lutheran Theology and Confessions
This 5-week online class will from 6:30-8:00pm on Monday evenings from August 17-September 14. The course fulfills the Lutheran Theology and Confession requirement for SAM ministry, but you do not have to be involved in SAM to participate. The class is $25 for those serving in rural and small town communities and $50 for everyone else.
Learn More about SAMs
Fill out the form below to connect with Rev. Diana Linden, Synod Minister for Rostered and Lay Leadership.
