Free Church Ordination Service Program Template

Church Ordination Service Program

I. Introduction

The Church Ordination Service is a significant and sacred occasion where individuals are formally recognized and set apart for ministry. This program outlines the key elements of the ordination service, including the order of worship, roles, and important details.

II. Program Overview

Time	Activity	Details
10:00 AM	Welcome and Opening Prayer	Opening remarks and invocation by the officiant.
10:15 AM	Hymn of Praise	Congregational singing of a selected hymn.
10:30 AM	Scripture Reading	Reading of Scripture related to ordination.
10:45 AM	Sermon	Message delivered by the guest preacher or senior pastor.
11:15 AM	Ordination Ceremony	Formal laying on of hands and prayer for the candidates.
11:45 AM	Presentation of Certificates	Presentation of ordination certificates to the newly ordained.
12:00 PM	Closing Hymn	Final hymn sung by the congregation.
12:15 PM	Benediction	Closing blessing and dismissal by the officiant.
12:30 PM	Fellowship Meal	Informal gathering and meal for fellowship.

III. Detailed Schedule

A. Welcome and Opening Prayer

Time: 10:00 AM
Leader: [Officiant’s Name]
Details: The service begins with a warm welcome to attendees, followed by an opening prayer to set the tone for the ordination ceremony. The officiant will acknowledge the significance of the event and invite the congregation to participate in the service.

B. Hymn of Praise

Time: 10:15 AM
Hymn: "How Great Thou Art"
Details: The congregation will join in singing a hymn of praise, celebrating the greatness of God and His work in the lives of the candidates being ordained.

C. Scripture Reading

Time: 10:30 AM
Passage: 1 Timothy 3:1-7
Reader: [Name of the Reader]
Details: A designated reader will present a passage of Scripture that highlights the qualifications and responsibilities of those called to ministry. This reading will underscore the scriptural basis for ordination.

D. Sermon

Time: 10:45 AM
Preacher: [Guest Preacher or Senior Pastor’s Name]
Details: A sermon will be delivered to provide spiritual insight and encouragement to the candidates and the congregation. The message will focus on the importance of ordination and the role of ordained ministers in the church.

E. Ordination Ceremony

Time: 11:15 AM
Details: The heart of the service, where candidates will be formally ordained. This includes:

Laying on of Hands: The officiant and other ordained ministers will lay hands on the candidates, symbolizing the transfer of authority and blessing.
Prayer of Ordination: A prayer asking for God's guidance, wisdom, and strength for the newly ordained ministers.

F. Presentation of Certificates

Time: 11:45 AM
Details: Each candidate will receive a certificate of ordination as a formal recognition of their new role. Brief remarks may be made about each candidate’s journey and achievements.

G. Closing Hymn

Time: 12:00 PM
Hymn: "Great Is Thy Faithfulness"
Details: The service will conclude with a final hymn, celebrating God's faithfulness and the commitment of the newly ordained ministers.

H. Benediction

Time: 12:15 PM
Leader: [Officiant’s Name]
Details: The officiant will give a closing blessing and dismiss the congregation, sending them forth with encouragement and prayer.

I. Fellowship Meal

Time: 12:30 PM
Location: Church Fellowship Hall
Details: An informal meal will be held for attendees to celebrate the ordination and enjoy fellowship with one another. This time provides an opportunity for the congregation to greet and congratulate the newly ordained ministers.

IV. Roles and Responsibilities

Role	Name	Contact Information	Responsibilities
Officiant	[Officiant’s Name]	[Officiant’s Email / Phone Number]	Lead the service, deliver the opening prayer and benediction.
Reader	[Reader’s Name]	[Reader’s Email / Phone Number]	Read the selected Scripture passage.
Preacher	[Preacher’s Name]	[Preacher’s Email / Phone Number]	Deliver the sermon.
Music Leader	[Music Leader’s Name]	[Music Leader’s Email / Phone Number]	Lead the congregation in hymns.
Reception Coordinator	[Coordinator’s Name]	[Coordinator’s Email / Phone Number]	Oversee the fellowship meal and reception arrangements.

V. Notes and Special Instructions

Dress Code: Formal attire is encouraged for all attendees.
Photography: Please respect the privacy of the ordination candidates. Photography is permitted during designated times.