Ministerial Internship Program (MIP)

REQUIREMENTS AT A GLANCE:

  1. Complete a MIP/Ordained Minister Application (application obtained by the pastor).

  2. Submit the application by the deadline (June 6) along with a 6-month tithe report, and a background check fee.

  3. Submit the Local Church Endorsement form, signed by the pastor, church clerk, and district overseer (this is completed upon a “setting forth”) via church conference.

  4. Complete the Ministerial Internship Program (MIP), beginning in September.

  5. Verify that all fees are paid in full and all MIP requirements have been met.

  6. MIP Commissioning Service will take place in May in Cleveland, TN.

  7. MIP Graduation will take place during the Missouri State Camp Meeting in June.

  8. Once the intern has graduated from MIP, they will be eligible to take the Ordained Minister exam.

DETAILED INFORMATION ON THE MIP PROGRAM:

Applicants for the MIP must currently hold Exhorter credentials in order to apply. MIP is required in order to advance from the rank of Exhorter to the rank of Ordained Minister.

The purpose of the Ministerial Internship Program (MIP) is to provide ministerial preparation through practical training on the local church level, academic self-study, and monthly training seminars, focusing on vital topics for spiritual leadership and effectiveness.

 The Ministerial Internship Program is comprised of three parts: 

1.       Eight monthly seminars attended by the candidates and their spouses.

2.       Online courses and studies on the Bible, doctrine, and leadership

3.       A supervised practicum with an assigned pastor

The assignments of MIP candidates to supervising pastors are made on the basis of personal training needs, geographical factors, and availability. The seminars complement and add to the experience of the supervised practicum.

In the case of candidates who are married, both the candidate and their spouse are required to participate in the program. A nonclergy spouse is required to successfully complete two Bible courses in MIP and participate in all other requirements including monthly seminars, monthly self-evaluations, and full participation as a spouse in the supervising local church. (Note: In order for the candidate to be approved to graduate from MIP, the spouse assignments must also be complete.)

To apply for the MIP, please have your pastor contact the Missouri Church of God Credentialing Department at wmd@mocog.church. MIP is offered once a year, beginning in September. THE DEADLINE TO SUBMIT ALL APPLICATIONS WILL BE JUNE 6, 2025.

MIP 2025-2026 SEMINAR SCHEDULE

MIP Orientation In Person – Saturday, September 6, 2025

Session 1 – Saturday, October 4, 2025

Session 2 – Saturday, November 1, 2025

Session 3 – Saturday, December 13, 2025

Session 4 – Saturday, January 10, 2026

Session 5 – Saturday, February 1, 2026

Session 6 – Saturday, March 7, 2026

Session 7 – Saturday, April 4, 2026

Session 8 - Saturday May 2, 2026

MIP Orientation will take place IN PERSON at the State Office! Sessions 1-8 will take place via Zoom Conference.

MIP Commissioning - May 15-16, 2026 (Cleveland, TN)

MIP Recognition - June 3, 2025 (Missouri Church of God State Camp Meeting)

MIP 2025-2026 FEE SCHEDULE

Single person seeking credentials - $700.00

Married couple, one person seeking credentials - $900.00 (per couple)

Married couple, both persons seeking credentials - $1,300.00 (per couple)