What does it cost?
Information about the current fees for membership and applications can be found here.
Is FCM affirming of LGBTQ+ chaplains?
Fully and without exception. Membership, Commissioning, and endorsement are open to all.
What’s the difference between Commissioning and endorsement?
Commissioning authorizes your public ministry generally; endorsement for specialized ministry recognizes you specifically for chaplaincy and clinical pastoral work.
Do I have to leave my current faith tradition?
No. Many FCM members hold dual membership with FCM and a local faith community.
Does FCM endorsement satisfy board certification requirements?
FCM is a recognized religious endorsing body; our endorsement is intended to meet the religious-endorser requirement. For specific information about the requirements of your certifying organization, we recommend you reach out to them. Our Regional Vice Presidents are also available to help discern if FCM is recognized by your board.
How do I find out what FCM region I’m in?
You can find out which FCM region you belong to here.
Is FCM a church? Where are the worship services?
FCM is a community of ministers from around the United States and the world who come together to empower each other for specialized inclusive ministries. While we are a community of faith, we do not have dedicated church buildings or traditional worship services. We recognize that many of our members retain dual membership with FCM
Can I just pay the fee, and become ordained with FCM instantly?
FCM does not provide universal and open ordination/commissioning to any and all that apply. Each individual member seeking commissioning must complete an application with supporting materials and be approved by our leadership (The Circle) at one of two annual meetings. The Federation of Christian Ministries locates authority for the authorization and oversight of ministers, including
Does FCM accept/affirm LGBTQ+ individuals?
Membership and subsequent commissioning are not restricted on the basis of attributes such as gender identity, gender expression, sexual orientation, or any other classification. Like the early Christian communities, we believe that the people of God, whenever and wherever they gather, are the church. Our Federation is a fresh expression of the original term ecclesia,
Who can join FCM?
All individuals that subscribe and are willing to uphold our purposes (check out the constitution for more information) and are seeking to participate in a vibrant community are welcome to join FCM.
