417. Continuation in Probationary Membership--To be continued as probationary members, candidates shall make regular progress in their studies for ordained ministry. In case of failure or delay, the board of ordained ministry shall investigate the circumstances and judge whether to extend the time within the following limits: (1) for completing the theological course for the Master of Divinity or equivalent first professional degree, a total of eight years; (2) for completing the advanced studies in the ministerial course of study, a total of four years. In a case clearly recognized as exceptional the board, by a three-fourths vote, may recommend an extension beyond these limits, which may be approved by a three-fourths vote of the clergy members in full connection, present and voting; provided, however, that no candidates shall be continued on probation beyond the eighth regular conference session following their admission to probationary membership, unless extended by the executive session on recommendation of the board of ordained ministry through a leave of absence; (3) each probationary member shall have an elder in full connection assigned by the board of ordained ministry as counselor during the period of probation. The counselor is to advise and counsel the probationer in light of the expectations for United Methodist ministry reflected in 423-424; (4) probationary members in appointments beyond the local church shall relate themselves to the district superintendent in the area where their work is done. The district superintendent shall give them supervision and report annually to their board of ordained ministry; and (5) whenever probationary members find it necessary to discontinue their theological education, the board of ordained ministry shall review their relation to the annual conference. If they desire to continue in the ordained ministry, they shall receive credit in the course of study for their theological work as the Division of Ordained Ministry shall determine.
General Conference Webmaster: Susan Brumbaugh
PETS Creator: John Brawn
1992 Book of Discipline: ¶ 417
1996 United Methodist General Conference