I was recently asked, “How does one become a pastor?”
The short answer is, by God's grace!
Basically, there are several steps.
First, there needs to be some knowledge of what the role involves. How can you wish to pastor if you don't know what they do? Also, there has to be a strong desire to perform that role, God willing. It's more than a job. It's a calling. So it can't be about money, but about the desire to minister the good news of Jesus and care for his flock.
Next, the would-be pastor needs to develop his God-given abilities and understanding, so as to prove that he may in fact be called. For instance, he needs to be a diligent student, speak and write clearly, learn to resolve conflicts between people, interpret the Bible accurately, and above all to pray. This process usually takes many years.
From this point, the path into most Reformed pastorates would be to attend college as well as seminary. Seminary is an additional 3-4 years of schooling in the biblical languages, theology, and pastoral skills like counseling. It's a long and difficult road, but very rewarding and completely worthwhile. Without seminary, I would be far less equipped for my role.
Finally, if the person is able to pass special ordination exams, then a local church or presbytery may call him to serve as their pastor.
Let me say, pastoring is both the hardest and most satisfying work I can imagine myself doing. It is also very necessary. But there are few who are able and willing to do it. So if God calls you to pastor, I'll rejoice!
