MINISTRY and HiGHER EDUCATION COMMISSION (MHED)

OUR PURPOSE

The Ministry and Higher Education Commission of the Global Methodist Church exists to ensure that clergy and laity are well-trained, equipped, and supported for faithful service in ministry across the globe. 


We provide leadership and oversight for ministerial education, clergy preparation, and the certification of lay ministry programs. The Commission implements standards across all forms of ordained and lay ministry, ensuring that the people of the Church are prepared both spiritually and practically to serve Christ and His mission.


Our responsibilities include:


  • Certifying educational programs for training lay ministers, deacons, and elders.

  • Developing curriculum and training materials for clergy and laity.

  • Supporting annual conference boards of ministry in their evaluation and formation work.

  • Overseeing psychological and background evaluations for candidates entering ministry.

  • Approving seminaries, universities, and educational institutions for ministerial preparation.

  • Exploring alternative pathways to clergy education for those outside traditional seminary routes.

Who We Are

The Ministry and Higher Education Commission is composed of clergy and lay leaders elected by the General Conference, representing a global span of experiences and ministry contexts.
Currently, the Commission includes:


  • 7 clergy members

  • 7 lay members

  • 1 bishop

1 staff liaison
representing 10 annual conferences worldwide


The Commission also collaborates closely with:


  • The Committee on Approval

  • The Lay Ministry Subcommittee

Additional workgroups focused on curriculum development, clergy assessment, and global education initiatives


MEETING & OPERATIONS

The Commission meets biweekly via Zoom to coordinate ongoing initiatives.


In-person gatherings, such as the Atlanta Working Session (November 6–7, 2025), provide opportunities for concentrated collaboration on curriculum design, institutional review, and certification processes.


Meeting schedules for 2026 and beyond will be shared as they are finalized.

RESOURCES & FORMS

The Council provides access to all necessary documents for individuals or entities seeking clarification, appeal, or declaratory action under its jurisdiction.  Posted forms are written in English, but if you need a form in your native language, please contact the Council via the email below.

If you are unsure which application to use, please contact the Council before submission at ConnectionalCouncilAppeals@globalmethodist.org

APPROVED PARTNER INSTITUTIONS

Nine previously recommended institutions are currently being vetted for official approval by the GMC.


An additional 13 institutions have expressed interest in becoming approved partners for clergy and lay training.

These institutions represent a growing network of Wesleyan-aligned schools committed to preparing the next generation of leaders in theology, mission, and ministry.


  • Approved Partner Institutions

    Nine previously recommended institutions are currently being vetted for official approval by the GMC.


    An additional 13 institutions have expressed interest in becoming approved partners for clergy and lay training.


    These institutions represent a growing network of Wesleyan-aligned schools committed to preparing the next generation of leaders in theology, mission, and ministry.


View Partner Institutions

LAY MINISTRY

EDUCATION

Lay ministers play a vital role in the mission of the Church.


The Commission is developing a Lay Ministry Certification process that parallels the institutional approval system.


This will help ensure that lay programs meet the same high standards of theological integrity and ministry readiness.

Contact Lay Ministry Team

CLERGY EDUCATION PATHWAYS

The Commission continues to guide the development of alternative pathways to ordination, supporting candidates whose calling and circumstances may not fit traditional routes.


We also provide resources to assist:

  • Annual Conferences conducting background and psychological evaluations
  • Seminaries developing GMC-approved curricula
  • Endorsing Ministries supporting specialized clergy roles
Explore Clergy Education Pathways

TRANSPARENCY & RECORDKEEPING

All official rulings, dockets, and decisions of the Connectional Council on Appeals are archived and made publicly available as part of the Church’s commitment to transparency and accountability.  To request an archived document, please contact the council at the email below.


Current docket of matters being heard by the Council of Appeals will be updated as new items are added.


In the event of a technical issue or corrupted file, duplicate copies are securely maintained by both the President and Secretary of the Council.

CONTACT

Current President, Dr. Zawdie "Doc" Abiade 

ConnectionalCouncilAppeals@globalmethodist.org