Pastor Ordination

What is Pastor Ordination?

An ordination definition is a hard thing to pin down. The word’s meaning varies greatly depending on particulars of a specific religion. By and large, ordination is the process by which people are set aside as clergy; in another word, consecrated. It is the ultimate act of ceremony for those committed to their faith. Once an individual is ordained, he or she is given the power to perform different religious ceremonies and rites. Ordination varies substantially from religion to religion and denomination to denomination.

While both the modern and traditional definition of ordination include the ceremony itself, biblical ordination was often simpler and more spiritual. According to Got Questions:

The word ordain in the Bible refers to a setting in place or designation; for example, Joseph was “ordained” as a ruler in Egypt (Acts 7:10); the steward in Jesus’ parable was “ordained” to oversee a household (Matthew 24:45); deacons were “ordained” to serve the Jerusalem church (Acts 6:1-6); and pastors were “ordained” in each city in Crete (Titus 1:5). In none of these cases is the mode of ordination specified, nor is any ceremony detailed; the “ordinations” are simply appointments. The word can even be used negatively, as an appointment to punishment (Luke 12:46).

While commissioning an individual who wishes to be ordained is traditional, it is not mandatory to the profession. The act of ordination doesn’t imbue a man or woman with special perspective or divine gifts. It is simple ceremony that is designed to give a crowning moment in a spiritual journey special meaning.