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Synod Authorized Ministers What is a SAM SAMs are synod authorized ministers who have completed an 18 month formation program and been approved by the bishop of the VA Synod to serve in small congregations which can t call an ordained pastor due to geographical or financial constraints Why is the SAM Formation Program important This program supports the bishop s work who is charged with providing pastoral leadership in congregations That work is more challenging when congregations are small remote or have limited financial resources SAMs trained and approved for ministry will be available for these congregations How will I be supported in this program SAM candidates will be accompanied by the leadership team and paired with a mentor for support guidance and encouragement After being approved can I serve anywhere No approved SAMs serve at the discretion of the VA Synod bishop They are placed in a specific congregation for a specified timeframe A covenant is signed by the SAM the congregation and the bishop detailing the relationship The covenant can be renewed Once the timeframe has concluded the SAM will end their relationship with the congregation SAM Leadership Team The SAM Leadership Team consists of rostered ministers who give their time and expertise to guide SAM candidates during the formation and placement process Their work is supported by rostered ministers who mentor SAMS after they have been placed The Rev Anna Havron serves as chair of the SAM Leadership Team and is the first point of contact The Rev Kelly Bayer Derrick Assistant to the Bishop works with the leadership team Interested If you are interested in learning more about the SAM Formation Program or becoming a SAM please contact Pastor Anna Havron at Frequently Asked Questions Synod Authorized Ministers Is God Calling You to Serve As a Congregational Minister sams vasynod org For more information vasynod org synod authorized ministers Virginia Synod ELCA 540 389 1000 www vasynod org Now there are varieties of gifts but the same Spirit and there are varieties of services but the same Lord and there are varieties of activities but it is the same God who activates all of them in everyone To each is given the manifestation of the Spirit for the common good PO Box 70 Salem VA 24153 1 Corinthians 12 4 7 NRSV

First Steps Other Details Where should I begin Begin with a time of intentional discernment Talk with your family and friends about what you re feeling called to do Visit vasynod org synodauthorized ministers to explore the information and resources available to help you learn more Seek God s guidance in your discernment through prayer Identify your favorite scripture verses and think about why they are important to you and how they may impact your ministry as a SAM Will I need to provide references Yes you will need to share the reference form links from the SAM webpage with the people you ve asked to complete them on your behalf There is one for your pastor or deacon and or congregation council and one general recommendation form for anyone who is not part of your family Each will submit the completed form online directly to the SAM Leadership Team Who should I talk to about becoming a SAM The first step is to talk with your pastor about your interest in becoming a SAM If your pastor is not available contact your congregation council If they are unavailable contact the Rev Anna Havron chair of the SAM Leadership Team sams vasynod org Why do I need support from my pastor and congregation council Your pastor and congregation council will be asked to attest to your membership in an ELCA congregation and share how you have been active in the congregation When should I contact the SAM Leadership Team After you have spoken to your pastor and congregation council reach out to the SAM leadership team so we can help you discern if this ministry might be a good fit for you and guide you in the next steps The Application What paperwork needs to be completed You ll need to complete the SAM Application and a biographical essay The prompts are included in the application Where do I find the SAM Application Visit vasynod org synod authorizedministers and click on the Application area Be sure to download the application before you begin What information will I need to provide on the application Your personal information like address phone numbers birthdate and email You ll identify the congregation where you are a member You ll provide information about your family education and employment Will I need to sign a release Yes you ll be asked to sign an authorization and release so that the SAM Leadership Team can complete a background check and make a referral for a psychological evaluation What is the application fee The non refundable application fee is 50 This will cover the cost of the background check and other administrative costs Will I need to participate in an interview Yes after the SAM Leadership Team has received and reviewed all of your entrance materials they will schedule the Entrance Interview What Does the SAM Formation Program cost The anticipated program costs are estimated to be 2 250 over the 18 month period The SAM Formation Program costs are split into two parts theology Bible preaching and worship 5 courses 1 500 pastoral care and leadership 3 courses 750 The cost for the program should be shared between the sponsoring congregation 75 and the SAM candidate 25 When can I start the formation program We use the cohort model for the training The first cohort begins in January 2023 Each cohort will begin at the same time and remain together until the end of the program see the schedule on the synod website