PRESBYTERY OF MICHIGAN AND ONTARIO
LETTERS OF RECOMMENDATION
The Form of Government states: “The presbytery shall also satisfy itself, by receiving testimonials or by other means, of the candidate’s piety and exemplary life and his personal zeal for and experience in presenting the gospel to others” (FOG XXI.4). “Trials for ordination shall consist of the following: (1) the evaluation of written and oral testimonials as to the candidate’s satisfactory exercise of the gifts for the gospel ministry...” (FOG XXIII.6).
Who should write a letter of recommendation? OPC teaching and ruling elders, elders of churches with which the OPC has fraternal relations, laymen, seminary professors, etc. Letters should contain a return address and phone number, and the person writing the letter should state his church membership and how long he has known the candidate.
Three letters of recommendation are preferred. “In the mouth of two or three witnesses shall every word be established” (2 Cor. 13:1). The original letter should be addressed to the presbytery (“Fathers and brethren:”) and sent to the stated clerk of presbytery:
Presbytery of Michigan and Ontario
c/o Rev. Ken Smith
7482 20th Ave.
Jenison, MI 49428-7702
For added safety, a copy of the letter may be mailed to the chairman of the Candidates & Credentials Committee:
Rev. Glenn D. Jerrell
500 Jackson St.
Walkerton, IN 46574-1110
Letters of recommendation should arrive in time to be brought to the meeting where the examination is taking place (generally one week in advance of the meeting). If necessary, they may be hand-delivered to the presbytery during a meeting, or faxed or mailed to the church where the presbytery is meeting (envelopes should be clearly marked: “For the Presbytery of Michigan and Ontario”).
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