Ecclesiastical Endorsement
Read the LCMS Specialized Pastoral Ministry ecclesiastical endorsement manual to learn more about endorsement standards and procedures, call criteria and program guidelines for ministries in chaplaincy, pastoral counseling, and clinical education.
Wondering about the reasons for endorsement?
Read a list of reasons for becoming ecclesiastically endorsed in Specialized Pastoral Ministry.
Applying for endorsement
We encourage you to read the ecclesiastical endorsement manual to determine eligibility requirements for your area of ministry.
To apply, please read the guidelines before completing the application and data form.
Already endorsed?
In order to retain one’s ecclesiastical endorsement as a specialized pastoral minister within the LCMS, an annual report is to be submitted to the SPM office by the end of each calendar year. Please download and complete this annual report form.
Contact SPM
The Lutheran Church—Missouri Synod
Specialized Pastoral Ministry
1333 S. Kirkwood Road
St. Louis, MO 63122
Email: spm@lcms.org
Phone: 888-843-5267
Fax: 314-996-1124