Clergy Home Churches

For various reasons, I recently have been in conversation with those who are beginning their first ministerial appointments. Naming the church that they “came out of” seems always to be part of this. Of course, making such connections is part of South Carolina culture. However, I believe remembering those who have nurtured our call to ministry is an important exercise. It not only gives us a key to who we are, but identifies churches who understand and fulfill their obligation to empower those who have been blessed with special gifts for ministry. I especially think of Socastee UMC who can claim to have called forth at least six ordained clergy in recent years. Personally, I answered a call to ministry while a member of Lexington UMC. What factors make such churches “home” churches for clergy?

I remember Bishop McCleskey reminding clergy to share their personal call story with their congregation at least once a year. This is known to open the door for others to respond to that inner voice that has whispered to their hearts. It seems to be a gift of some clergy to effectively mentor these persons into pursuing ordination. However, it appears to be more often a congregation that is the critical factor for those answering the call to ministry. Persons are encouraged to explore this call through a variety of experiences and are affirmed in their faithfulness.

So, I have to ask –
Am I helping anyone hear a call to ministry? If not, how might I do so?
Why doesn’t First UMC regularly call forth ministers? What must we do to make this happen?