The Order of Ministry in the Christian Church (Disciples of Christ) in the Capital Area Region is overseen by the Commission for Ministry (CFM) and the General Commission on the Order of Ministry (GCOM). The Commission for Ministry, comprised of both clergy and lay members, provides guidance, support, and encouragement to people exploring and engaging in ministry in the Capital Area Region.

  • supports candidates seeking ordination;

  • supports all ordained and commissioned ministers;

  • supports healthy relationships between pastors and congregations and, when necessary, oversees investigations of unethical conduct by ordained or commissioned ministers

  • oversees the process of granting standing to clergy ordained in other denominations;

  • offers ministerial training/educational events and oversees grants for ministerial education including the Chase Memorial Fund, the Gerald Flinn Memorial Fund;

  • works in accordance with our denomination’s General Commission on the Order of Ministry (GCOM), which develops and recommends policies for the order of ministry;

  • considers matters related to ministerial concerns, such as ordination, commissioning, and standing;

  • coordinates ministerial services;

  • works with ecumenical partners on ministerial concerns

Persons seeking to prepare for ministry in the Capital Area Region must first contact the Capital Area Regional Minister, Rev. Dr. Marcus Leathers, by email. Following an initial general informational session with Rev. Dr. Leathers, persons seeking to prepare for ministry will meet with the Commission for Ministry to discuss in detail the Policies and Procedures of our Region Concerning the Order of Ministry and various options for pursuing the appropriate program of study and formation for either ordained or commissioned ministerial leadership.