The Ecclesiastical Program of Ministerial Candidacy (EPMC)

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The Ecclesiastical Program of Ministerial Candidacy (EPMC)

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Home / Programs / The Ecclesiastical Program of Ministerial Candidacy (EPMC)

What Is the Ecclesiastical Program of Ministerial Candidacy?

The Ecclesiastical Program for Ministerial Candidacy (EPMC) is available to you if you are currently pursuing or have completed a Master of Divinity (MDiv) program at another seminary but seek ordination as a Minister of the Word in the Christian Reformed Church in North America (CRCNA). In coordination with the CRCNA, Calvin Theological Seminary provides courses to be completed as part of the ordination process.

What Can I Do After Completing the EPMC?

This program seeks to holistically prepare participants for ministry and to meet the candidacy requirements established by the Synod of the CRCNA.

Our EPMC Curriculum

Receive an orientation to the theology, history, and ministry of the Christian Reformed Church. In addition, vocational formation components prepare students with hands-on ministry experiences, mentorship, and reflection.

EPMC Courses & Credit Hours

Your individualized learning plan will include, at minimum, 9 credits.

Commonly Included Courses

  • Biblical Interpretation for Ministry (1)
  • Christian Theology in Reformed Confessions (3)
  • Christian Reformed Church Polity (1.5) 
  • Christian Reformed Church History (1.5)
  • Preaching (2) 
  • Digital Bible Tools (1) 

On Campus & Online

Students may complete the EPMC program in-person at our Grand Rapids campus or fully online.

Reformed Tradition

Calvin Theological Seminary is the official seminary of the CRCNA and teaches from a thoroughly Reformed perspective. 

Vocational Formation & Contextual Learning

Vocational formation components of the EPMC include a thorough psychological assessment, mentoring experiences, ministry practice, and a vocational formation reflection paper. These opportunities help you to strengthen your ministry experience and spiritual and personal formation prior to your ordination.

Finishing the EPMC

How Long Does the EPMC Take?

The EPMC takes two years to complete. 

Graduation Requirements

Learn more about graduation requirements through the EPMC Handbook.

Program Outcomes

This program is designed to prepare men and women for ordained ministry in the CRCNA.

Paths to Ordination

In addition to the MDiv program of Calvin Theological Seminary, the EPMC is another path to ordination in the CRCNA.

How to Apply

Whether you are studying in your MDiv program or have completed your MDiv degree, you can apply today for the EPMC program. During the application process, Calvin Theological Seminary will contact the CRCNA on your behalf to indicate your interest. 

Do you have questions before applying? Email admissions@calvinseminary.edu or slaclear@crcna.org (Susan LaClear, Candidacy Director of the CRCNA) with your inquiry.

EPMC participants are not eligible to receive institutional financial aid from Calvin Seminary. Participants may seek financial support or scholarships from their own classis’ student fund or other sources at their own initiative.

Application Requirements

Admission Deadlines

  • Fall Term: August 1
  • Spring Term: December 1
  • Summer Term: April 1

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

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In addition to contextual learning, the Vocational Formation Office offers students other forms of support, including formation groups with peers, vocational mentors, and assessment tools to help students identify and cultivate their strengths.