Name:

RESIDENCY HANDBOOK

The materials in this book are based on the Arkansas Conference requirement
for a minimum two-year process for Resident Provisional Ministers.

CONFERENCE YEAR 2009-2010

Arkansas Conference Board of Ordained Ministry
Residency Committee

Revised May 2009

 RESIDENCY HANDBOOK
Table of Contents

Contact Information………………………………………………………...…………3
The Residency In Ministry Process………………………………………………...4
Residency Requirements and Responsibilities…………………….……………..6

Covenant Peer Groups….………………………………………….……………..….10

Mentor-Facilitators…………………………………………….……………….….....12

Personal Ministry Plans…………………………………………….……………......14

Writing A Case Study…………………………………………….…………………..17
BOM Biographical Form…………………………………………….……………...18

Evaluation of Residents……………………………………………………………...19
The BOM and Evaluation…………………………………………………………..19
Evaluation Forms
SPRC Evaluation Form……………….……………………………………..20
District Superintendent Evaluation Forms…………………………………..22
Resident’s Self-Evaluation Report…………………………………………..24
Assigned Mentor-Facilitators’ Evaluation Form……………………….........25

Ordination & Full Connection Primary Requirement Checklist…………..26

Covenant Peer Group (CPG) Schedule Worksheet…………………………...27
Primary BOM Assignments for the Residency Process Explained………...28

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 CONTACT INFORMATION
Residency Committee Co-Chairs
Rev. John Fleming Rev. Blake Bradford
(John works with mentors & CPG’s) (Send all written materials and
PO Box 357 evaluations to Blake.)
Sheridan, AR 72150 St. Paul UMC
870-942-4127 2223 Durwood Road
jandrewfleming@gmail.com Little Rock, AR 72207
501-666-9429
479-567-2126 cell phone
revbradford@gmail.com

Arkansas Conference BOM

Board of Ordained Ministry, Secretary
Rose Kuonen
(For January 31 deadline, send all audio/video copies of sermons, along with written copies of
sermons and discipline questions to Rose)
Arkansas Conference
#2 Trudie Kibbe Reed Dr.
Little Rock, AR 72202-3770
Toll Free: 877-646-1816;
Office: 501-324-8033
Fax: 501-324-8018
rkuonen@arumc.org

Board of Ordained Ministry, Chair Executive Registrar

Rev. Biff Averitt Rev. J.J. Whitney
1211N. Orole Ave Hendrix College
Rogers, AR 72756 1600 Washington Avenue
Home: 479-636-1327 Conway, AR 72032
biffaveritt@cox.net 501-450-4590
501-450-4595 (fax)
whitney@hendrix.edu

Registrar of the Division of Deacons

Rev. Ceceilia Kelly
(Provisional Deacons’ contact for Field Project Approval)
Arkansas Conference
#2 Trudie Kibbe Reed Dr.
Little Rock, AR 72202-3770
Toll Free: 877-646-1816;
Office: 501-324-8013
ckelly@arumc.org

Your Mentors/Facilitation Team:

Mentor 1 phone e-mail

Mentor 2 phone e-mail

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 RESIDENCY IN MINISTRY PROCESS
Arkansas Conference Board of Ordained Ministry Residency Committee
Commissioned provisional ministers who
 have completed all educational requirements
 received a full time appointment
 and are seeking full membership and ordination in the Arkansas Conference
shall enter a Residency In Ministry (RIM) Process.

The goals of the RIM program are to:

1. Provide the BOM with the evaluative tools necessary to gauge the effectiveness of provisional members
seeking ordination and full connection
2. Assist provisional members in their transition into ministry
3. Create opportunities for peer group learning and support among the residents

It is clear from studies of career stages that early patterns and attitudes become basic for a person’s self-
confidence and view of his/her ministry. Your way of understanding your vocation as a United Methodist
Minister is created during this time, and research shows that it will last during the whole of your ministry.
Some persons have been scarred by real or imagined failure during this period and never recover their
confidence. The value of the Residency Process cannot be over-estimated. This is the time that you set habits,
styles, and inclinations for a lifetime of ministry. Through the Residency Committee, clergy mentors, and
covenant peer groups, the Board of Ordained Ministry (BOM) offers provisional ministers a curriculum that
supports the practice and work of their ministry as servant leaders, to contemplate the grounding of ordained
ministry, and understand the covenant ministry in the life of the Arkansas Conference of the UMC. Successful
completion of this process is a requirement for ordination as a deacon or elder in full connection in the Arkansas
Conference. In accordance with recent and existing General Conference decisions, residency is a 2-8 year
process. The BOM expects that the average length of residency will be 3 years, but the new RIM process will
not be designed with a 2-year or 3-year "default" calendar. Instead, the process will allow flexibility so that
you, the resident, are assisted with the tools you need to transition into effective ministry as an ordained United
Methodist minister in full connection. Also, it will allow the people of the BOM to have the evaluative tools we
need to assess your effectiveness in ministry. Two years of effective ministry in a single appointment as a
Resident is the minimum time required to complete the Arkansas Conference Residency Process. It is the
responsibility of the Resident to complete assignments and be present at meetings and interviews.
A note from the Residency Committee:
We seek to serve Christ together. Our prayer is that this RIM Process will provide you with a rich experience
as you transition into full-time ministry as a servant of Jesus through the ministries of the UMC.
A video is available by DVD or online that explains the RIM process to your SPRC. It is suggested that you
view this with them (and your senior pastor, if applicable) early in your tenure.
By being among the first participants in this new process, you are doing a great service to those who come after
you. Also, please know that we want feedback in this new process, so please contact the Chairs of the
Residency Committee with ideas or suggestions to improve the RIM process.

AN SHORT OVERVIEW OF THE RESIDENCY PROCESS

The BOM will assign sermons to be preached, Bible study outlines to be developed, case studies to be analyzed,
and field related experiences to be evaluated. Throughout the program, residents are assessed as to their gifts,
readiness and effectiveness in ministry. This RIM process is coordinated and supervised by the Residency

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Committee of the Conference BOM and shall be in full accordance with the disciplinary requirements and such
other requirements as deemed necessary by the Annual Conference (2008 Discipline, ¶326).

The requirements of the RIM Process are derived from both The Book of Discipline of the United Methodist
Church and the rulings of The Arkansas Annual Conference. In addition to the mandates of the general church,
the conference requires complete participation in its own RIM process under the supervision of the Residency
Committee of the Conference BOM. The Chairpersons of the Residency Committee will communicate
annually with the BOM concerning the progress of the Resident. The Residency Committee of the BOM has
designed a program of peer groups, evaluations, retreats, and other requirements, which must be completed by
the Resident. The process requires the Resident to actively participate in illuminating, evaluating, and reflecting
on the practice of ministry. The Resident must attend all meetings and produce all paperwork on time.

The RIM program is comprised of three primary elements:

1. A multi-day summer retreat organized in partnership with Connected In Christ
A requirement is attendance at an annual summer retreat, a time of learning and spiritual/vocational formation
and discernment.

2. Small residency Covenant Peer Groups (5-7 residents + 2 mentor/facilitators) that will meet 6-7 times a
year
One purpose of the Residence Process of the Arkansas Annual Conference is to surround each Residency
Member with supportive caring groups. One of the groups is a Covenant Peer Group (CPG). Provisional
members are expected to participate in the CPG “to support the practice and work of their ministry as servant
leaders, to contemplate the grounding of ordained ministry, and to understand covenant ministry in the life of
the conference” (2008 Discipline, ¶326).

3. Assignments and annual Board of Ordained Ministry Interviews

By January 31 of each year, materials are due to the Board of Ordained Ministry Secretary in preparation for the
yearly interview/retreat with the BOM. Some basic assignments include:
 In the first year, a biblically based sermon that includes in its content the three-fold Wesleyan
view of grace and a Bible study curriculum and lesson plan on Romans are due
 In the second year, Provisional Elders will submit a biblically based sermon on the ministry of
all Christians that includes in its content your call to ordained ministry
 In the second year, Provisional Deacons will submit a report concerning a field education
experience
 In the third through eighth year, written assignments are given by the BOM
 In the year seeking ordination (year 2 – year 8), answers to the doctrinal questions required for
conference membership (2008 Discipline, ¶330.4.a-c for deacons and ¶335.7a-c for elders) are
due
 Every year, evaluation forms from your covenant peer group, mentor facilitators, and your
District Superintendent are due
Specific details on all of these and other requirements are found throughout this handbook. It is the
responsibility of the Resident to be sure that all these elements are completed and on time. The focus of the
residency process is the work of ordained ministry and reflection on the practical aspects of being a servant
leader in the United Methodist Church. At this stage of provisional membership, ministerial effectiveness is the
focus of the BOM and the Residency Committee. The Resident will reflect on his/her own ministry using the
feedback from the Covenant Peer Group, the mentor facilitators, the SPRC, the Residency Committee, the DS,
and other concerned parties.

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RESIDENCY REQUIREMENTS AND RESPONSIBILITIES
A note for all written assignments:
Residents, please include your name, the year (1st, 2nd, 3rd… 8th) of the residency program, and a description
of the assignment at the top of the page. Please use Times New Roman 12 pt. font, and put your name and the
page number on all pages.

In order to assist the Resident in acquiring “how-to skills” and holy habits in full time ministry and meet all the
requirements for reception into membership in full connection and ordination, the Resident is charged with the
following responsibilities:

1. Covenant Peer Group:

One purpose of the Residence Process of the Arkansas Annual Conference is to surround each
Residency Member with supportive caring groups. One of the groups is a Covenant Peer Group
(CPG). These covenant groups can help the Resident face the possibilities and challenges of
ordained ministry and his/her growth in that ministry. It is composed of 5-7 residents + 2
mentor/facilitators, which will meet 6-7 times a year.
It is required that the Resident meets regularly and participates actively with their CPG. Groups are
based geographically around the state. Due to budget restraints, the annual conference cannot pay
expenses for these events. Therefore, you should budget travel costs into your own professional
expense agreements at your church/ministry setting. Every year, Residents are assigned a group and
to two mentors/ group facilitators.
Mentor/facilitators:
 Members in Full Connection
 Lead and guide the peer groups
Peer Group goals will include:
 Forming ministerial identity
 Formulate personal ministry plans
 Working with congregation members & conflict management
 Addressing ministerial effectiveness issues, using case studies & conversations
 Spiritual formation and peer relationship
 Sharing best practices and assess each others' written BOM assignments

2. A multi-day summer retreat organized and funded in partnership with Connected

In Christ
To attend an annual summer retreat, which is a time of learning and spiritual/vocational
formation and discernment.
Topics and goals will include:
 Orientation on Arkansas Conference basics
 Forming ministerial identity
 Leadership, teamwork, & planning
 Working with congregation members & conflict management
 Money matters: congregational stewardship & clergy financial planning
 Spiritual formation and peer relationships

3. Resident’s Plan for Ministry: The Resident will formulate a Plan for Ministry early in his/her
experience that will be honed in the Resident’s Covenant Peer Group. Details for this assignment begin
on page 14. The focus of this process is the Resident’s development of his/her own Plan for Ministry. It
is his/her set of goals that are specifically tailored by and to this one person alone. The CPG will assist

6
 the Resident in evaluating his/her progress in the goals he/she has set out for him/herself in the Plan for
Ministry.

4. Case Studies: Each year, the Resident will present Case Studies from his/her current ministry setting
for discussion and evaluation (see page 17).

5. Teaching a Book of the Bible: During the first year of the residency program, the Resident will
prepare a teaching plan and outline on the book of Romans. This includes:
 1-2 page curriculum overview/outline/syllabus of the entire book of Romans
 3-5 page sample lesson plan from a particular session of your overview/outline
 Be creative, this may be organized thematically, by chapter, etc.

Each Resident’s Bible Study is reviewed by the CPG after which a written copy of the teaching
outline is sent to the Chairperson of the Residents’ Committee of the BOM.

6. Sermon: Written sermon(s) are submitted to the BOM.

 Deacons Only – Provisional Deacons are required to submit a sermon in the first year and a field
related experience in the second year (see #7 of this section below). In the first year, a biblically
based sermon that includes in its content the three-fold Wesleyan view of grace is due.

 Elders Only – Provisional Elders are required to submit one sermon the first and one
sermon/worship service the second year.
1. In the first year, a Biblically based sermon that includes in its content the three-fold
Wesleyan view of grace is due. For the video, please record only the sermon.
2. In the second year, a biblically based sermon on the ministry of all Christians that
includes in its content your call to ordained ministry is due. For the video, please record
the full worship service to show the Resident’s leadership in worship.

The resident will forward eight (8) copies of the written sermon and eight (8) copies of the video
format to the BOM Secretary and one (1) copy of the written sermon to the Chair of the Resident’s
Committee of the BOM by January 31.

The resident is responsible for making copies of the manuscript and video format. If a technical
glitch occurs with recording, please notify the Chair of the Residency Committee for options. If you
are an outline or “no notes” preacher, please transcribe your sermon after it is preached so that the
board will have the full text, (edited for grammar and reading).
Some advice for sermons written for the BOM: A common mistake is for the resident to create a
sermon that that is so technical in its Biblical exegesis that the resident’s own voice is
overshadowed. The Board wants to hear your voice in your sermon to your congregation. Please
don’t make any dramatic stylistic or delivery changes for the sermons sent to the BOM. Making
dramatic changes in your personal style or presentation just for videotaped sermons for the Board
will make you nervous and will not reflect your true preaching style. Some residents tape a few
sermons for practice to get used to being taped.

7. Field Related Experience: (Provisional Deacons only) In the 2nd year, a video format of a field
related experience (for example, conducting a cantata, leading a workshop on teaching Sunday School
teachers how to teach, leading a program at a youth group, etc) is required.

7
 The field related experience and appropriate documentation is assigned by the BOM in consultation
with the Resident and the Registrar of the Division of Deacons of the BOM. Before you begin,
written approval of your concept is needed from the Registrar of the Division of Deacons of the
BOM. The resident will forward eight (8) copies of the video format to the BOM Secretary along
with any supporting documentation, lesson plan, etc. by January 31.

8. Doctrinal Questions: In the year seeking ordination and full connection, the Resident will answer
the doctrinal questions from the 2008 Discipline, ¶330.4.a-c for deacons and ¶335.7a-c for elders. Please
be sure you are answering the correct question set. Also, there is a typo in the Discipline resulting in two
¶330.5, so deacons please disregard the first section break and answer all the questions (a-c).

Please print the question before each answer and double space your answers. A suggested rule of
thumb is an average of one page per question, although some answers will require more.

Please submit one (1) copy of your doctrinal questions to the Chairperson of the Residents’
Committee of the BOM and eight (8) copies of the questions to the Secretary of the BOM by January
31.

Some advice for writing your Disciplinary Doctrinal Questions: Unlike the questions you completed for
commissioning, this set of questions centers on your effectiveness and experience in ministry. Please be
sure to make your answers a reflection on your experience in ministry and not simply an academic
treatise.

9. Evaluations: The ministry assessment process is rooted in Wesleyan theology that is grace-filled and
built upon covenantal relationships and disciplines. The ministry assessment process assists the Resident
in reflecting on the consistency (or inconsistency) between his/her beliefs and his/her practice, provides
feedback in a manner that encourages and supports learning from experience, extends care to Residents
as they gain new insights from failures, and celebrates growth. The process holds Residents accountable
for demonstrating fruits and keeping commitments made in covenant with the community of faith. As
such, the ministry assessment process involves the self- evaluation of the Resident and the annual
evaluations of the Resident by the District Superintendent, local church SPRC, and peer group mentors,
The evaluation process gives the Resident some much-needed feedback on how others see him/her in
comparison with how he/she sees him/herself. These evaluations are used by the BOM as it gauges the
effectiveness of the resident.

All evaluations are due by January 31 to the Chairperson of the Residents’ Committee of the BOM.
Additionally, in the year seeking ordination, please send one (1) copy of the DS Evaluation to the
Chairperson of the Residents’ Committee of the BOM and one (1) copy to the Secretary of the BOM by
January 31.

If the Resident is serving in a ministry setting beyond the local church, then the Resident should contact
a Co- Chairperson of the Residents’ Committee of the BOM for alternate evaluation instructions.

10. Board of Ordained Ministry Spring Interview

Each year, the BOM will interview continuing residents and residents seeking Full Connection. Small
team, Division and full BOM interviews may be used. In order to explore the effectiveness of the
resident in ministry, materials such as Sermons, Disciplinary Questions & Answers, Evaluations,
Psychological assessments, health reports, background checks, academic records, and other
documentation are included as topics of discussion. At issue for the BOM is determining the Resident’s
effectiveness in ministry.
8
11. Health and Psychological Examination: In keeping with provisions of the Discipline, the
BOM may require a candidate to take an additional physical examination or additional psychological
testing prior to his/her election to Membership in Full Connection and Ordination.

12. Application for Orders and Full Connection: The Resident will download an application for
full connection and deacon/elder’s orders from the Conference Website (www.arumc.org). This
application is submitted to the Secretary of the BOM at the Conference office by October 1 in the year
before the Annual Conference in which you seek ordination.

13.Additional Assignments from the BOM:

The Board of Ordained Ministry may, at the Board’s discretion, direct residents to repeat a residency
year’s assignments, require additional assignments, and /or complete additional years of residency. The
goals of such assignments are to determine the effectiveness of the resident in ministry.

Please submit one (1) copy of your work to the Chairperson of the Residents’ Committee of the BOM
and eight (8) copies to the Secretary of the BOM by January 31.

9
THE COVENANT PEER GROUP:
The Covenant Peer Group is an official extension of the Residency In Ministry Program. Each resident is
assigned by the BOM to a Covenant Peer Group (CPG). Each group will have 5-7 residents and two ordained
members in full connection acting as mentor/facilitators.

The Covenant Peer Groups have both a spiritual formation element and colloquium element. The CPG is
intended to be a creative, loving, and nurturing environment through which the provisional member may reflect
on her or his ministry and process assignments in advance of Board interviews. Thus the CPG’s role is of
critical importance to the process. The BOM, through the Residence Committee and Covenant Peer Group,
offers support to the Resident Provisional in reflecting upon the ministry he/she is doing. This kind of counsel is
not the same as on-the-job-training in skilled work where techniques and skills are of predominant importance.
Neither is it the same as Clinical Pastoral Education with its controls and limits.

The concept of the Covenant Peer Group presupposes a sense of covenant and commitment on the part of
everyone in the group. This is an essential covenant with one another in the group, with Christ, and with the
Church. The mutual peer support of the Covenant Peer Group is of paramount importance. In the Covenant
Peer Group, commissioned ministers receive encouragement for the practice and work of ministry as servant
leaders. Residents reflect on the grounding of ordained ministry and consider covenant ministry in the life of the
annual conference. Participation in a covenant peer group during the Residency Program is part of the process
of vocational discernment. For those who proceed into ordained ministry, it forms habits and practices of
accountable covenant ministry that will continue through their participation in the Order of Deacons or the
Order of Elders. (2008 Discipline, ¶326)

Covenant Peer Group (CPG), functions in the following ways:

1. To help the Resident meet the requirements for full conference membership
2. To enable the Resident to make the transitions in ministry with support and guidance
3. To enhance the Resident’s vocational discernment with critical reflection on the use of authority
4. To encourage the Resident to examine the issues of effectiveness in ministry with regard to
his/her own performance
5. To give opportunity for each group member to grow in ministry and self-understanding
6. To urge the Resident to seek spirituality through the fellowship with God, Jesus Christ, and the
Holy Spirit
7. To give the Resident guidance in sharing his/her vision for the church with local church leaders
and members
8. To give opportunity for each resident to reflect on the meaning and purpose of the Order of Elder
and Deacon
9. To assist the Resident and the BOM in providing appropriate feedback concerning the resident’s
effectiveness in ministry

In determining the style and nature of the group, mentor-facilitators and residents should reflect on questions
such as: what style of meeting does the group prefer? That is, will members participate only through group
discussion or will role-play and other processes also be used? What will be the schedule for sharing case studies
and assignments? In considering these questions, participants should keep in mind that the focus of the group is
to be a mentoring group. It is not a therapy group or a consulting group. While mutual support is part of the
style and nature of the group, a covenant group is not simply a support group. Each participant uses the group to
help reflect on his or her identity, roles, and authority in the clergy office to which he or she is appointed. Each
group will take on its own character and style, and that identity will change every year due to members and
mentors moving, members completing residency, and new members beginning residency. Therefore, the

10
groups will be recreated and reconstituted every summer. The residency committee will attempt to make group
assignments relate to geographical groupings so as to keep travel times and costs down.

Typical CPG Meetings

The Covenant Peer Group will meet 6-7 times a year. The CPG Facilitation Team will determine the schedule
and advise the CPG members of the schedule and location of the meetings. It is the expectation of the
Residency Committee that the location of the CPG meetings will rotate among the CPG members’ ministry
settings so that the ministry context of fellow CPG members may be visualized. CPG meetings will generally
last 3-4 hours and may include a fellowship meal together (church, Dutch treat @ restaurant, homes, etc -- this
depends greatly on the needs and size of the group).

Basic meeting pattern:

o Devotions rotated among the residents
o Check-in and ―how goes your soul‖ time
o Processing of assignments (sermons, discipline questions, ministry plans, case studies, bible studies,
etc)—processing means that different residents will be scheduled to particular sessions to present their
BOM sermon, disciple questions, or other assignments. After the presentation, the mentor/facilitator will
lead the group in discussing each resident’s work, and the whole group will work together in providing
feedback and discovering ―best practices.‖
o Before close, the Mentor will set up the schedule and details for the next session
o Close by sharing prayer requests and praying for one another
o Include a communal meal of some sort before or after the meeting: Dutch treat at a restaurant, brown
bag, or provided by the host church – this is an important fellowship opportunity

Annual Schedule of CPG Meetings

August Welcome
Covenant, ground rules & organization,
Share time (call to ministry & current appointment);
Make ministry plan assignment for next meeting

September Ministry plans (discuss & update)

October Process assignments (Sermons, Discipline Questions)

November Process assignments (Sermons, Discipline Questions)

January (or early February)

Complete any process assignments
(Sermons, Discipline Questions, Field Projects)
Discuss SPRC/Ministry setting Evaluations
Discuss & prepare for BOM interviews scheduled for the Spring

January 31 is the due day to submit BOM materials to the conference office, including all assignments,
evaluations, and the Facilitator/Mentor’s Evaluation

The BOM Spring Interviews for all Residents are usually held in March or early April.

April Process assignments Case Studies and Bible Studies

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THE MENTOR-FACILITATOR & CPG LEADERSHIP
In the Arkansas Conference, the BOM has chosen to use the mentoring within groups (the CPG) as the method
of providing clergy mentors to residents. Two mentor-facilitators are assigned to every CPG, and they will
share duties as a group facilitation team. A mentor helps to create a safe place for the members of the group to
share and explore their call, roles, and vocational office. To have a positive group process, it is vital that the
mentor be at ease with group processes and be clear about his or her role in these processes. The mentor-
facilitator is not a “fix-it” person for group members. Nor should she or he be expected to be an expert in issues
of ministry. The role of the mentor is to help group members focus on issues of role, authority, and office.
Mentors help group members to reflect theologically about their ministries and to talk about the struggles,
anxieties, and joys of ministry. Mentors may contact the Residency Committee Co-Chair assigned to work with
mentors any time throughout the year for backup support, questions, or assistance. Backup support should be
shared with the group and the meaning of confidentiality clearly defined.

Guidelines for Group Mentoring (Adapted from Readiness to Effectiveness, GBHEM)

Group Covenant
As with one-to-one mentoring, groups need structure and direction. Each participant will write a personal
covenant statement. The group as a whole will write a common statement. The group covenant articulates in
basic terms the disciplines of the group. The group can use questions like the following to construct its
disciplines:
 What is the expectation regarding attendance?
 When and how often does the group meet, and how long is each session?
 Are group members expected to prepare for each session or do assignments following
 the session?
 What will be the focus for the group through the year?
 What is the role of the mentor as group facilitator?
The covenant also contains the definition and expectations about confidentiality regarding matters shared within
the group. Reporting will also be understood and done in a way that does not violate the sacred communication
of group members. All participants must sign the covenant.

Spiritual Formation in the Group

Spiritual formation in the group begins with members telling about their call, vocation, spiritual disciplines, and
authority. The prayer, worship, and ritual practices of the group deserve attention and preparation. The whole
group should make the decision about these practices, not just the mentor-facilitator. Usually, the facilitator
team will lead worship and prayer during the first session and then allow the residents to rotate leadership the
rest of the year.
As part of “Check-in” a form of Wesley’s question: “How goes it with your soul?” will be asked. How are
you really doing? What pains and burdens are you carrying today? How can the group pray for you today?

Group Expectations
From the start the mentor-facilitator must be clear about the expectations of each participant and of the mentor-
facilitators:
 What expectations govern leadership, preparation, and participation in the group?
 How is responsibility for preparing sessions assigned?
 Who will design and lead worship times?

12
  If a session has reading material, do all members have to read the material or only a designated few?
 How will the group share responsibility for building relationships?
 How will the group keep one another accountable for observing worship and prayer opportunities and
for following the meeting agenda?
 When a resident reports a case study or leads in the processing of a BOM assignment, what (if any)
feedback is expected from the rest of the group?

Evaluation
Annually, the mentor facilitation team will complete an evaluation of each resident assigned to their group and
submit it to the Residency Committee Co-Chair (see page 26) before January 31. Mentors-Facilitators will team
together to produce a single evaluation for each resident.

Additionally, if a resident is struggling or wishes a delay in the RIM program, please contact a Co-Chair of the
Residency Committee immediately so that a proper response can be implemented.

13
THE PERSONAL MINISTRY PLAN
In your years of residency in the Arkansas Annual Conference, the BOM attempts to provide an atmosphere in
which each Resident is surrounded with valuable resources for growth in ministry. A central part of this
process is the development of a Personal Ministry Plan. This is something that all pastors within the
Conference are encouraged to do on an annual basis. It is also an important skill for providing leadership in,
for, and through the church.

The particular process that we advocate is much more than a “to do” list. It is more than a checklist of things to
accomplish. Rather it is a process designed to provide clarity of calling and focus for ministry. At the core of
the process is the discernment of one’s personal vision and mission, as well as one’s core values and
foundational beliefs.

These dimensions of planning are called the “core”. As with a wheel, power comes through the center, the hub,
or the core. When this core is strong, our ministry gains focus and direction, motivation, and meaning. Much
of our work together will revolve around being able to name and communicate these core dimensions of our
ministry.

In addition to these core dimensions, Residents will be asked to develop goals, strategic initiatives, and tactics
that lead to the fulfillment of the core. This part of the process is intended to address the actions needed to help
us fulfill what God is calling us to be and do. The goal is not to list everything, but to focus energy and
resources strategically; that is, directed toward the fulfillment of the core.

The outcome of this section is a written list of goals that can be connected to the mission, a written list of
strategic initiatives that connect to the goals, and a written list of tactics that address the details needed to
accomplish the strategic initiatives. These tactics will answer the questions of who, when, what and where.

Training for this process will be provided for all Residents at the Summer Retreat. Each Resident will also
receive written materials, resources, and examples. Throughout the Residency period, there are opportunities to
discuss and evaluate the process with mentors and the Covenant Peer Group.

A working draft of the Personal Ministry Plan is presented to your CPG each year of residency. Copies must be
provided for each member of the Covenant Peer Group and the Chairperson of the Residency Committee of the
BOM. It needs to be understood, however, that this is a process. We remember that adage: “Planning is
everything; plans mean nothing,” as well as, the saying “Those who fail to plan, plan to fail.” Especially on the
strategic side of the plan, there is always room for change and adaptation. These changes may be self-initiated
in consultation with one’s CPG Facilitation Team or Covenant Peer Group, or may come from the feedback of
the Covenant Peer Group.

Each Resident is encouraged to take this process seriously as a means to more faithful and fruitful ministry. It
is intended to be a resource to help each Resident develop skills in strategic thinking, intentional ministry
planning, and pastoral leadership. The skills learned through this process can be used not only for personal
enrichment but also for leadership in congregations as well.

14
Recommended Areas of Consideration for the
Development of a Personal Ministry Plan
Personal Ministry Plans include things like continuing education, reading commitments, personal disciplines,
activities for spiritual-physical-emotional health, areas of ministry that you want to emphasize, planning for
intentional family time, and more. The key question is: What do YOU want to accomplish within this time as a
child of God and leader of the church?

Each Resident will develop his/her own Plan early in the minimum three year period of residency. Each Plan
needs to include initiatives from a minimum of four areas: 1) Functions of Ministry, 2) Professional and
Personal Development, 3) Interpersonal Relationships, 4) Continuing Ministry. Below are some ideas and
suggestions that may be considered for inclusion within the Plan.

1) Functions and Disciplines of Ministry

a) Preaching
b) Teaching
c) Evangelism
d) Leadership in Worship
e) Educational Ministries
f) Counseling (pre-marital, grief, etc.)
g) Visitation
h) Community Involvement
i) Program Planning and Implementation
j) Empowerment of Lay Ministry
k) Administrative Ministry (budgets, bookkeeping, church records, etc.)
l) Outreach for missions
m) Time Management
n) Sermon Preparation and Delivery
o) Communication and Relational Skills

2) Personal and Professional Development

a) Confidentiality
b) Theological Reflection and Interpretation
i) Nature and Function of Church, Theology of Grace, Ecology of the Mission of the Church, etc.
ii) Church History and Policy
c) Coping with Stress and Expectations of Ministry
d) Self-image in Ministry
i) Lifestyle, personal habits, family, time-off, etc.
e) Self-Care
f) Relationships beyond the church (family, friends, etc.)
g) Spiritual Growth (prayer, devotion, meditation, scripture reading, etc.)

3) Interpersonal Relationships
a) Dealing with Conflict
b) Sensitivity to the Needs of Others
c) Openness to all Persons
d) Staff Relationships
e) Dealing with Criticism

15
4) Continuing Ministry
a) Career Objectives
b) Career Opportunities
c) Continuing Education

A Few Questions for Personal Ministry Planning

What do I want to be?

What is my passion? (at the heart of my ministry)
What are my spiritual gifts?
What are my non-negotiable core values?
What is my purpose in ministry?
What leadership style is needed?
What do I really want to achieve?
What resources are needed?
What personal disciplines are needed?

Rev. Michael Roberts, Connected in Christ for the Arkansas Annual Conference
May 2005

16
WRITING A CASE STUDY
The purpose of these case studies is to engage in theological reflection on the practice of ministry. You will
write up a case from your current ministry setting. A “Case” is a written report of a critical event in which you
were involved as a minister with some responsibility for the outcome. Deal with a meeting, an issue of ministry
in a small group or committee, even a one-to-one session that is dealing with an issue of your (or the
church/institution’s) ministry. It can deal with any age level or any issue from teaching the Bible to pastoral
care to managing the church facility. Please be mindful of the sacredness of pastoral communications and the
identities of individuals referred to in case studies. Remember, in writing this study, the focus is on your
ministry, your responses, your behavior, and your reflections concerning the event, not solving the particular
issue presented.

Your write up should include the following:

1. Give the critical background information: Enough information to set the event in context.
a. What you had in mind, what you hoped/feared would happen?
b. When and how you became aware of/involved in the event?
c. What pressures and persons precipitated and shaped the event?

2. Briefly describe the Important parts of the event: What happened and what you did.
a. Report the event, including as much detail as possible in the limited space

3. Analyze the event: Identify Issues and Relationships, with special attention to changes and resistance to
change. Try to answer the question: What's going on here?
a. What Biblical/theological assumptions were present?
b. What were the most important cultural influences at work in this situation?
c. Describe the understanding of the church and ministry that Informed your words and actions

4. Evaluation: your estimation of your own effectiveness in the event.

a. Did you do what you set out to do?
b. Did you function effectively?
c. What factors emerged which you did not anticipate?
d. Given your own theology of ministry, what options do you see for this situation?
e. What issue would you want your CPG to address in this situation to help you?

This Case Study will be shared with your CPG and remain with your CPG Facilitation Team.

Adapted from Case Study Instructions, Doctor of Ministry 9380: Seminar in Practical Theology
Dr. Ed Sylvest, Perkins School of Theology, SMU

17
 Board of Ordained Ministry Resident Program Biographical Information Form
Please send an update if you are moved

Name Date:

Appointment

Role (associate, etc.): Provisional Status: Deacon___ Elder___

City District

*********
Address_________________________________________________________________________________________________
Street City State Zip

Home Phone (______) _________________ Office Phone (______) _________________ Birth date ___________________

E-mail___________________________________________________________________________

Dates Attended Degree or Credit Hours

Your Educational Background
High school: _________________________________________ ____________ ____________________________

College: ____________________________________________ ____________ ____________________________

College:_____________________________________________ ____________ ____________________________

Theological Seminary:_________________________________ ____________ ____________________________

Theological Seminary: _________________________________ ____________ ____________________________

Course of Study/
____________ ____________________________
Advanced COS ______________________________________

Other ____________ ____________________________

Mentor Facilitator: Recent Photo

Mentor Facilitator: ______

BOM Notes:

Insert Photo

Here

18
EVALUATION OF RESIDENTS
The BOM and Evaluation
On behalf of the Arkansas Annual Conference and in accordance with The Discipline of the United Methodist
Church, it is the duty of the Board of Ordained Ministry to determine candidates’ and residents’ fitness,
readiness, and effectiveness in United Methodist ministry. This evaluation is ongoing throughout the residency
process, with the CPG and the assigned mentors being extensions of the BOM.

The Evaluation Process:

The local SPRC, the assigned Mentors, and the District Superintendent will evaluate the resident’s effectiveness
in January of each year of his/her Residency. The evaluation process gives the Resident some much-needed
feedback on how others see him/her in comparison with how he/she sees him/herself. The Resident is also
asked to complete a self-evaluation. These evaluations are used by the BOM as it gauges the effectiveness of
the resident.

The Evaluation Forms:

Included are several Evaluation Forms:
 Staff-Parish Relations Committee
 District Superintendent Evaluation Form
It is the responsibility of the resident to get this form to her/his DS. Since the BOM form is due
on January 31, many residents get this form to their DS before consultation, so that the DS may
fill it out as part of the consultation preparations. It is the responsibility of the resident to have
the DS complete and mail the form to the Chairperson of the Residency Committee/ BOM
Secretary (as listed on the form)
 Self Evaluation Form
Every year, the resident shall complete and send in a self-evaluation describing growth and
challenges over the last year and plans for continued growth in the future.
 Peer Group Mentor Evaluation Form
Each year, the peer group mentors shall complete and send in a report using the form included.

It is the responsibility of the Resident to get all evaluation forms turned in to the Chairperson of the Residency
Committee (and/or the BOM Secretary, as directed).

ALL EVALUATION FORMS ARE DUE BY JANUARY 31

ONLINE VERSIONS OF EVALUATION FORMS ARE ALSO AVAILABLE

19
 SPRC / PPRC Evaluation Form
Resident’s Name______________________________________________________ Date_____ _______
Current Year in Residency  First  Second  _____ Appointment
The Resident is to Provide each member of the SPRC with a copy of his/her Plan for Ministry. The whole committee fills out this form and
one copy is submitted to the Chairperson of the Residency Committee of the Conference BOM by January 31. You may also attach a letter
or documentation if you believe it will assist the BOM in its process.
Please submit a single form that contains an evaluation from the whole committee
This form is also available in an online questionnaire format. Please Request an e-mail with the address from Blake Bradford.

1. Please note 3 or 4 areas in which you believe that the Resident is particularly effective in ministry:
 Preaching and leading worship
 Clear articulation Wesleyan theology
 Teaching the Word and engaging people in study
 Outreach to the community (Missions)
 Empowering and equipping others for ministry
 Leadership and vision for the ministry setting
 Interpersonal Relationship / Teamwork (Laity & Staff)
 Personal faith/spiritual formation
 Connectional ministries
 Emotional & Spiritual Maturity
 Writing and Communication
 Conflict resolution
 Pastoral care
 Evangelism
 Self-Care
 Administration
 Other:
 Other:
Specifically:

2. What areas still need to be addressed in the life and ministry of the Resident?
 Preaching and leading worship
 Clear articulation Wesleyan theology
 Teaching the Word and engaging people in study
 Outreach to the community (Missions)
 Empowering and equipping others for ministry
 Leadership and vision for the ministry setting
 Interpersonal Relationship / Teamwork (Laity & Staff)
 Personal faith/spiritual formation
 Connectional ministries
 Emotional & Spiritual Maturity
 Writing and Communication
 Conflict resolution
 Pastoral care
 Evangelism
 Self-Care
 Administration
 Other:
Specifically:

20
 SPRC Evaluation for page 2

3. What ministry goals did the SPRC and DS set in consultation with your resident at the beginning of
the year?

4. How effective was the resident in progressing on or completing these goals?

5. Please share any additional information you think would be helpful to the Board of Ordained Ministry
as it assesses the resident on her/his gifts and effectiveness in ministry:

Please PRINT names of all SPRC Members: Present at Evaluation Session:

Chair ____________  present phone #

____________  present

 present

 present

 present

 present

 present

 present

 present

 present

Thank you for your part in the Board of Ordained Ministry evaluation process.
MAIL TO: Rev. Blake Bradford, revbradford@gmail.com, by January 31
21
 DISTRICT SUPERINTENDENT RESIDENT EVALUATION FORM
Year 1 or Continuing in Process
RESIDENT’S NAME: DATE:

Evaluation Process:
The Resident is to provide the District Superintendent with this form and a copy of his/her Plan for Ministry. This form is to
be filled out by the District Superintendent and mailed to the Chairperson of the Residency Committee of the Conference
BOM by January 31. You may also attach a letter or documentation if you believe it will assist the BOM in its process.
This form is also available in an online questionnaire format. Please Request an e-mail with the address from Blake Bradford.

Your honest, prayerful consideration in the Evaluation is essential to its success. Please take a few moments to
consider each question, and please be specific.

1. How have you observed the Resident in the practice of ministry during this year?

Were the Resident’s charge conference forms and check-out forms prepared and on time?

2. What are some areas that you would view as the resident’s strengths?

3. What are some areas in which you would like to see growth during the resident’s provisional process before
he/she applies for full connection?

4. Are there any unique congregational/institutional contextual issues that challenge the resident?

5. Do you have any concerns that would stop you from recommending the resident to another year of
Residency? No Concerns Yes, I have concerns as follows:

DS Signature: District
Thank you for your part in the Board of Ordained Ministry evaluation process.
MAIL TO: Rev. Blake Bradford, revbradford@gmail.com, by January 31

22
 DISTRICT SUPERINTENDENT RESIDENT EVALUATION FORM
Year Seeking Full Connection

RESIDENT’S NAME: DATE:

Evaluation Process:
The Resident is to provide the District Superintendent with this form. This form is to be filled out by the District
Superintendent and one (1) copy mailed to both the BOM Secretary at the Conference Office and to the Chairperson of the
Residency Committee of the Conference BOM by January 31 of the year in which they apply for full connection. You may
also attach a letter attesting to the resident’s effectiveness in her/his appointment.
This form is also available in an online questionnaire format. Please Request an e-mail with the address from Blake Bradford.

Your honest, prayerful consideration in the Evaluation is essential to its success. Please take a few moments to
consider each question, and please be specific.

1. How have you observed the Resident in the practice of ministry during this year?

During all their ministry years in your district?

Were the Resident’s charge conference forms and check-out forms prepared and on time?

2. What are some areas that you would view as the resident’s strengths?

3. What are some areas you believe the resident will need to grow in her/his ministry?

4. Are there any unique congregational/institutional contextual issues that challenge the resident?

5. How has the resident shown effectiveness in her/his appointment?

6. Do you recommend the Resident for full connection?

Yes, I recommend the resident Provisional for Full Connection
No, I do not recommend because of the following concerns:

DS Signature: District
Thank you for your part in the Board of Ordained Ministry evaluation process.

MAIL TO: BOM Secretary @ Conference Office and Rev. Blake Bradford, revbradford@gmail.com, by January 31

23
RESIDENT’S SELF-EVALUATION ANNUAL REPORT
Resident’s Name: Date
Current Year in Residency  First  Second  _____
Mentor’s Name:

This form is filled out by the Resident after the SPRC meets for its evaluation Session. The Resident should mail it to the Chairperson of the
Residency Committee of the Conference BOM by January 31.

1. What have you learned about yourself and how have you grown in the practice of ministry during this year
of residency?

2. Briefly describe some ministry challenges you have experience in the last year:

3. In what ways do you intend to grow in your effectiveness in the coming year?

4. Please share any additional information you think would be helpful to the Board of Ordained Ministry:

MAIL TO: Rev. Blake Bradford, revbradford@gmail.com, by January 31

24
BOM MENTOR-FACILITATOR EVALUATION FORM
Mentor-Facilitators should complete this form together

Resident’s Name: Date

Current Year in Residency  First  Second  _____
Mentor’s Name: Phone #
Mentor’s E-mail:
*****
Mentor’s Name: Phone #
Mentor’s E-mail:
This form is filled out by the Assigned Mentors, who should mail it to the Chairperson of the Residency Committee of the Conference BOM
by January 31. You may also attach a letter or documentation if you believe it will assist the BOM in its process.

1. How has the resident been involved in the CPG? Attendance? Sharing?

2. Please share any additional information you think would be helpful to the Board of Ordained Ministry in
preparation for Spring Interviews:

3. Do you have any concerns that would stop you from recommending the resident..
a. To continue in the residency program? (for residents seeking continuance)
or
b.. To be ordained at Annual Conference? (for residents applying for Full Connection)

No Concerns Yes, I have concerns as follows:

Thank you for your part in the Board of Ordained Ministry evaluation process.
MAIL TO: Rev. Blake Bradford, revbradford@gmail.com, by January 31

25
 Ordination & Full Connection Primary Requirement Checklist
Arkansas Conference
Name: Year began Residency

Annual Requirements: Yr 1 Yr 2 Yr 3 Yr 4 Yr 5 Yr 6 Yr 7 Yr 8
Residency Summer Retreats _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____
BOM Spring Interviews _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____
Evaluations
Self-Evaluation _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____
District Superintendant _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____
SPRC/Supervisor _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____
Peer Group Mentors _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____

Attend Residency Covenant Peer Group Meetings

Year 1: _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____
Year 2: _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____
Year 3: _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____
Year 4: _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____
Year 5: _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____
Year 6: _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____
Year 7: _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____
Year 8: _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____ _____

Primary BOM Assignments: Date Projected/ Due Done

Complete Educational Requirements and Begin Residency 
Satisfy the BOM re: physical, mental, and emotional health 
Minimum 2 years in One Appointment as a Resident 
Sermon #1 (Elders & Deacons) Jan 31 
Bible Study/Lesson Plan on Romans May 15 
Application for Ordination & Full Connection Oct 1 
Sermon #2 (Elders) or Field Project (Deacons) Jan 31 
Discipline Questions (Elders ¶335.7a-c; Deacons ¶330.5a-c) Jan 31 
Satisfy the BOM re: physical, mental, and emotional health 
Complete Additional Assignments from the BOM 

26
COVENANT PEER GROUP SCHEDULE WORKSHEET
Make Copies for Every Year in Residency

Date Place Topic

August Welcome
Spiritual Formation Leader: Facilitation Team
Covenant, ground rules & organization,
Share time (call to ministry & current appointment);
Share full contact information & e-mail addresses
Assignment: ministry plan drafts for next meeting

September Spiritual Formation Leader:

Ministry plans (discuss & update)
Assignment:

October Spiritual Formation Leader:

Process assignments (Sermons, Discipline Questions)
Assignment:

November Spiritual Formation Leader:

Process assignments (Sermons, Discipline Questions)
Assignment:

January Spiritual Formation Leader:

(or early February)
Complete any process assignments
(Sermons, Discipline Questions, Field Projects)
Discuss SPRC/Ministry setting Evaluations
Discuss & prepare for BOM interviews scheduled for the Spring
Assignment:

Everything is due by January 31 to the BOM including all assignments and evaluations
The BOM Spring Interviews for all Residents are usually held in March or early April.

April Spiritual Formation Leader:

Process assignments (Process assignments Case Studies and Bible Studies)
Closing ritual

27
 PRIMARY BOM ASSIGNMENTS FOR THE RESIDENCY PROCESS
1st Year Sermon – (DUE JANUARY 31)
 A Biblically based sermon that includes in its content the three-fold Wesleyan view of grace.
 If you are an outline or “no notes” preacher, please transcribe and edit your sermon after it is preached
so that the board will have the full text.
 The Resident will send eight (8) copies of the written sermon and eight (8) copies of the video format to
the BOM Secretary and one (1) copy of written sermon to the Co-Chair of the Residents’ Committee

Teaching Plan/Outline and Sample Lesson Plan (1st YEAR, DUE May 15)
 Plan and teaching outline on the book of Romans. This includes:
o 1-2 page curriculum overview/outline/syllabus of the entire book of Romans
o 3-5 page sample lesson plan from a particular session of your overview/outline
o Be creative, this may be organized thematically, by chapter, etc.
 Each Resident’s Bible Study is reviewed by the CPG after which a written copy of the teaching outline
is sent to the Co-Chair of the Residents’ Committee

Discipline Questions (DUE YEAR SEEKING ORDINATION, JANUARY 31)

 2008 Discipline, ¶ 330.4 for deacons and ¶ 335.7 for elders. Please be sure you answer the correct
question set. Also, there is a typo in the Discipline resulting in two ¶330.5, so deacons please disregard
the first section break and answer all the questions (a-c).
 Please print the question before each answer and double space your answers. A suggested rule of thumb
is an average of one page per question, although some answers will require more.
 A suggested rule of thumb is an average of one page per question, although some answers will require
more.
 Please submit one (1) copy of your doctrinal questions to the Co-Chair of the Residents’ Committee and
eight (8) copies of the questions to the Secretary of the BOM by January 31.

Elder’s 2nd Year Sermon/Worship Service (DUE JANUARY 31)

 A biblically based sermon on the ministry of all Christians that includes in its content your call to
ordained ministry is due. If you are an outline or “no notes” preacher, please transcribe and edit your
sermon after it is preached so that the BOM will have the full text.
 For the video, please record the full worship service to show the Resident’s leadership in worship.
 The Resident will send eight (8) copies of the written sermon and eight (8) copies of the video format to
the BOM Secretary and one (1) copy of written sermon to Co-Chair of the Residents’ Committee

Deacon’s Field Experience (2nd Year Deacons only– DUE JANUARY 31)
 A video format of a field related experience (for example, conducting a cantata, leading a workshop on
teaching Sunday School teachers how to teach, leading a program at a youth group, etc)
 Before you begin, written approval of your concept is needed from the Registrar of the Division of
Deacons of the BOM.
 The resident will forward eight (8) copies of the video format to the BOM Secretary along with any
supporting documentation, lesson plan, etc. by January 31.

Please include for all written assignments:

 Your Name on each page
 Page Numbers
 The year of the residency program (1st, 2nd, 3rd… 8th)
 A description of the assignment at the top of the page
 Please use Times New Roman (or similar) 12 pt. font

28
 Addendum for Existing Residents
2009

RIM Process Transition Issues:

Current 2nd Years:
If you have completed the other requirements, such as the minimum 2 years of residency in one
appointment, then you may apply for full connection in October.
Please complete both the Discipline Questions and the Elder’s 2nd year sermon (as listed in this
book) OR the Deacon’s Field Project for January 31
Residents seeking full connection after only 2 years will need a very clear record of
effectiveness in your appointment. It is not required that you apply for ordination after the
minimum 2 years.

Current 3rd Years:

Instead of competing the Discipline Question again, please complete the assignment labeled
Elder’s 2nd year sermon (as listed in this book) OR Deacon’s Field Project for January 31.

29