Extraordinary Ordination

'Extra-ordinary,' in this sense, does not have to do with the candidate being different. (Organized religions have often made queer people feel different and even defective. More on that below.) And being 'ordained' often involves welcoming a candidate into a fellowship of ministerial colleagues. Being 'ordained' is, in a sense, becoming 'ordinary' in terms of having met certain standards. The American Protestant Union exceeds most denominational standards. Ours is a rigorous process that is described in more detail below. So, what is 'ordinary' about, then? The Oxford English Dictionary defines 'ordinary' as "exercising authority by virtue of office and not by delegation." Therefore, 'extraordinary' refers to the ecumenical (interdenominational) gathering of ministers from across Christendom who are affiliated with the American Protestant Union to extend the "right hand of fellowship" to those who have met high standards of ministerial excellence, theological education, emotional intelligence, and spiritual giftedness.

The Board of Directors, which in other circles might be called bishops, includes ministers ordained by various denominations and who deeply believe in the ecumenical vision of the American Protestant Union. These Directors also represent different genders, races, sexualities, abilities, geographical locations, class, and other social locations. Together, they mentor candidates for ordination (or "Candidates for Authorized Ministry") during their years of theological education, or, if a candidate has already completed their theological education and other requirements, then the Board forms a relationship with that candidate prior to being ordained. In all cases, a mentor is assigned to an ordained minister (or "Authorized Minister") for the first year of ordained life. 

In order to become a Candidate for Authorized Ministry:

• The aspirant for ministry must have completed at least twelve (12) graduate credit hours in a vocational ministry program (normally the Master of Divinity), which is accredited by the Association of Theological Schools. In a quarter or trimester system, the aspirant must have completed at least fifteen (15) graduate credit hours in an ATS-accredited M.Div. program.
• The aspirant for ministry should schedule a time to have a conversation about their life journey and experience with ordination processes (or ordained ministry) with one of the Directors. 
• The aspirant for ministry should complete the Application to Candidate for Authorized Ministry Program, including all essays.

Once in the pool of Candidates for Authorized Ministry, a support system is formed (unless already in place): 

• A mentor in ministry is selected, and the Candidate meets with them at least monthly. Retired clergy are, of course, excellent options if an active minister is not chosen. 
• A spiritual director is selected, and the Candidate meets with them semi-monthly for the first two months, then monthly going forward. 
• The aspirant should schedule a two-day Psychological and Vocational Assessment from a site accredited by the Ministry Development Council. 
• If desired or needed, the aspirant seeks out periodic support of a team of therapists, such as  a licensed clinical social worker (LCSW), Marriage and Family Therapist (MFT), or Psychologist (PhD or PsyD); and/or a Psychiatrist (MD).
• For all Candidates for Authorized Ministry, at least one unit of Clinical Pastoral Education, accredited by the Association of Clinical Pastoral Education or an equivalent agency is required. 
• For Candidates seeking board certification through the Association of Professional Chaplains, four units of CPE are required for APU denominational endorsement process, but it is not required in this ordination process.
• For Candidates planning to enter a nonprofit vocation, a unit of Urban Clinical Pastoral Education or its equivalency is strongly encouraged. 
• For Candidates who feel called to Pastoral Counseling and those who desire a vocation in organized religion, a year-long field placement is required. 

Once theological education has been completed and a support system activated and utilized, the Candidate should schedule a meeting with the entire Board of Directors for a final meeting of mutual discernment. Topics discussed include a review of the Candidate's personal story, application materials submitted, seminary/divinity school transcripts,