Join the Curian Network Today!
We’re here to resource, credential, and endorse counselors, spiritual directors, pastors, and chaplains. If you’re leading a faith community or feeling an invitation to do so, this could be your new theological, ecclesiological home.
Credentialing, Endorsement, and Curian Commons Participation
Licensed
Requirements to be licensed:
- 1 year of ministry experience.
- Engaged in ongoing ministry work (paid or volunteer) that builds and sustains spiritual community. Examples include: leading or planting a faith community, facilitating spiritual formation cohorts, chaplaincy, spiritual direction, teaching theology, hosting regular gatherings, or creating spaces (online or in-person) where people explore faith together.
- Demonstrated theological competence through a bachelor's degree in theology, biblical studies, divinity, or similar field. In lieu of formal degrees, a substantial body of theological, religious, counseling and or social justice work will be considered.
- More under Application Process and Membership Dues
Ordained
In addition to the requirements listed for licensing, ordination typically includes:
- Sustained ministry experience
- Master's or Doctorate in Theology, Divinity, Ministry, or related field (OR equivalent theological depth demonstrated through extensive published work or teaching)
- Commitment to ongoing holistic health (counseling, therapy, meditation practices, retreats, spiritual direction, etc.)
- Written or video theological statement articulating your ministry philosophy and how it resonates with Curian's values and theological paradigm
- More under Application Process and Membership Dues
Chaplain Endorsements
The Curian Network is a recognized endorser with The Board of Chaplaincy Certification and The Association of Professional Chaplains. In addition to endorsements for hospitals and hospices, we also partner with Coalition of Spirit-filled Churches to provide endorsements for VA, Military, and Federal Prison Ministry. Please contact us for more information and to start the process.
The Curian Commons
The Commons is for theological migrants (not seeking professional credentialing) who no longer fit in traditional church structures but still long to be a part of a community interested in the way of Jesus.
Participation involves two commitments:
- Living in resonance with our values and theological paradigm.
- Contributing what you can to sustain the commons we share.
As we grow this area, you’ll receive updates, invitations to gatherings, resources, and whenever anyone says something like the following: “I know you’re interested in justice, mercy, and humility, but do you belong anywhere?” You can say, “Why yes, yes I do belong somewhere.”
COMING SOON!
Application Process and Membership Dues
First year membership fee is $199. This covers a $100 application fee for a full background check, ministerial certificate, and administrative time for a credentialing interview and reference checks. The application fee is non-refundable.
Annual membership dues are $99, renewable on your anniversary date. This covers administrative overhead and membership cards sent out yearly.
There are several steps in the application process:
- Completion of membership application for licensing or ordination. First year membership fee is payable at this time.
- A background check is completed with C4 Operations. This process takes 48 – 72 hours.
- Reference checks will be completed via email or phone.
- Once background check is received, a member of the credentialing board will email you to coordinate an interview time to discuss your application and calling.
This conversation is relational and fluid, not an exam, but we’ll always cover at least, four things:- Getting to know you better.
- Discussing your “calling” and the shape it’s taking.
- Exploring our values and theology together, so come prepared to discuss what we have on our website.
- Your commitment to do your best to live in alignment with our values and participate in our annual gathering.
- Application determination is made promptly and you will receive an email with next steps for completing annual membership form or feedback for reconsideration.
- Completion of our psychological evaluation, a tool that offers a deep dive into an individual’s psyche by focusing on key behavioral traits and the complexities of human personality.
If you have questions regarding the credentialing process and your specific situation, please contact credentials@opentable.network.