What is the District Examining Board?

Charis Fellowship is comprised of local churches who share a common purpose centered on similar beliefs and practices.  Our movement is summarized by a commitment to Biblical Truth, Biblical Relationships and Biblical Mission.  Since we have churches in many parts of the United States, we are also organized in geographical regions that we call districts.  This enables us to maintain regular contact with other churches and provide a working structure for us to carry out our overall purposes.

Since we are a fellowship and not a denomination, we place a high value on the local church and its autonomy.  However, our districts can provide services to the local church to help them carry out their mission.  A very important service that a district can provide is to aid the local church in the process of affirming a man’s call to the ministry.  Our means to this end is the District Examination Board.  Its work provides a protection for a local church and is a way to ensure that within our fellowship we are walking with as much agreement and unity as we can and should.

Typically, most people only think of theology when they think of an examination board.  Those ultimately recommended for ordination must demonstrate a clear understanding of Scripture, the Gospel, theology and doctrine.  However, our process will also include a way to assess their ministerial skill, personal and ministry relationships, their understanding of the church and its mission and their Christian character. We believe a person who has been ordained should be very balanced in his Christian life and ministry.

This process is not meant to be threatening to any man that God has called into ministry.  We believe though that a call of God into Christian ministry is a high and holy calling.  Our main goal is to be helpful and encouraging so a man can effectively carry out this great responsibility.  (James 3:1) 

If you do not know how to contact your district examination board or you do not have a functioning district examination board where you live, contact INSPIRE for help.

Contacting INSPIRE
Mark Lingenfelter, President
14 Brethren Lane, Duncansville, PA 16635
Leamersvillegbc@icloud.com
(814) 515-3821