SAM Student Application
Please complete this application. Once completed you will be sent an email instructing you about the process for completing  a background check.   If you have a current background check (a check that has been done in within the past year) you may submit a copy of that check to the synod office for consideration.

The application fee is $50. There is a cost of $250 for the background check. Please work with your congregation council and pastor to help with these fees. Once the fees are received at the synod office, background check is complete and all other references are checked we will be able to fully process your application.
Sign in to Google to save your progress. Learn more
Email *
Name *
Address *
Phone *
e-mail *
Congregation (name and address) *
How many years have you been a member of this congregation? (If less than 3 years please tell us what congregation you were active in prior to this one) *
Current participation in your congregation: *
Education  (high school, college, certifications/other) *
Employment History *
DISCLOSURE INFORMATION & BACKGROUND CHECK     Out of care for the church, the following questions are asked of candidates for this ministry. Please check the box if this applies to you. You will have an opportunity to provide comments or explanations in the box below.
Explanation of any disclosures.
FINANCIAL ASSISTANCE Need-based scholarships for course costs are available and confidential. Do you want someone to call you to discuss scholarships? *
SPIRITUAL AUTOBIOGRAPHY The next few questions are an opportunity to share more about your faith journey and expectations of the Synod Authorized Ministry Program. We begin with this question: What are the significant and transforming moments in your faith life so far? *
 Describe your sense of God’s presence in your life right now. *
 Tell us about two people in your faith life who have helped you grow. Give examples of how your faith has been challenged and grown. *
Describe a Bible story or share a scripture passage that is especially meaningful to you now or that represents your spiritual journey. *
 What spiritual practices do you find meaningful? Describe your plan for how your faith life will be sustained during your studies. *
Describe your journey of discernment. Who are the people who have affirmed your sense of call to ministry, and what did they say? *
Why are you interested in being a SAM? Share how God is calling you to serve God’s people and church. *
AUTHORIZATION / RELEASE I understand as part of standard procedure and in our efforts to protect you and those you will be leading, all applicants are required to have a background check completed. As part of New York State law, your authorization to perform this check is required. This is a simple process and can be done online. All materials pertaining to the background check shall be the property of the Upstate New York Synod ELCA. *
A copy of your responses will be emailed to the address you provided.
Submit
Clear form
Never submit passwords through Google Forms.
reCAPTCHA
This form was created inside of Upstate New York Synod. Report Abuse