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Eligibility requirements

Our Eligibility Requirements

To ensure that the Ministerial Comfort & Renewal Initiative (MCR) serves those who genuinely need support, the following eligibility criteria have been established for ministers seeking to participate in the program;

Eligibility Criteria

Active or Former Ministry Involvement Within the FGCN

  1. Must be an Inducted or Licensed minister or pastor.
  2. Must have at least two years of experience in full-time or part-time ministry.
  3. Former ministers who left ministry due to burnout, stress, or personal challenges may also be considered.

Commitment to the Recovery Process

  1. Must be willing to engage in counseling sessions and submit to the Guided Recovery Program (GRP).
  2. Must agree to confidentiality guidelines to maintain a safe and secure healing environment.
  3. Must demonstrate a genuine desire for recovery, renewal, and self-care.

Evidence of Need

Must demonstrate emotional, spiritual, or mental health challenges related to ministry, such as:

  1. Burnout and exhaustion
  2. Anxiety, depression, or stress
  3. Personal crises affecting ministry effectiveness
  4. Feelings of isolation or disconnection from the church community
  5. A self-assessment questionnaire and/or a referral from a church leader, counselor, or trusted peer may be required.

Specific Program Requirements

Counselling Services

  1. Ministers experiencing severe emotional distress or personal crises will be prioritized.
  2. Participants must commit to attending a minimum of three counseling sessions with a licensed counselor or pastoral care provider.
  3. Additional sessions may be recommended based on individual needs.

Peer Support Groups

  1. Open to ministers seeking emotional and spiritual support from peers.
  2. Participants must be willing to share experiences and encourage fellow ministers.

Retreat and Short-term Sabbatical Program

  1. Ministers applying for a retreat or sabbatical must have been in active ministry for at least five years.
  2. A letter of recommendation from a church leader, ZS or D.O.
  3. Preference will be given to those who have not taken a sabbatical in the past five years.

Workshops and Training

  1. Open to all ministers seeking personal development in stress management, selfcare, and mental resilience.
  2. No prior approval needed, but registration is required for logistical planning. These sessions can be both virtual and/or physical.

Special Considerations

  1. Financial Assistance: Ministers in financial hardship may apply for sponsorships or grants to cover counseling or retreat costs.
  2. The initiative can subsequently be open to ministers from other Christian denominations.
  3. Confidentiality Assurance: Personal information shared within the program will be kept strictly confidential.

Application Process

  1. Complete an online or physical application form detailing ministry background and current challenges.
  2. Undergo an initial consultation (self-assessment or referral-based). This will be followed by a medical assessment of the applicant.
  3. Receive program placement (counseling, support groups, retreats, or training).
  4. Commit to participation as per program guidelines.