Since 1969 when commissioning was first approved by the Ministerium and the Covenant Annual Meeting, candidates with either a bachelor's or master's degree were accepted. This allows continued recognition of individuals called to minister with a bachelor's degree in an area of specialty. Many individuals are in the commissioning process currently who would not qualify for Ordained to Specialized Ministry.

--- (Edited on 8/12/2008 12:40 pm [GMT-0500] by daniellen) ---