We host a free, annual retreat for those engaged with the candidacy process, and those who are discerning a call to ministry are welcome whether formally in the candidacy process or not. The retreat is a low-key way to meet members of the committee and current seminary students, as well as a great chance to discuss the plethora of educational paths, places, and paces available for theological training.  Spouses are welcome too, as serving in the church is a family affair.

For those who have officially entered the process, the retreat provides our best opportunity to develop strong and supportive relationships.  Your presence is expected. An online opportunity for participation is possible, but funds are available to assist with in-person attendance.

2026 Retreat:  October 18th & 19th in Kearney at First Lutheran Church . More details coming in 2026. If you have any questions please contact Amy Woods at candidacy@nebraskasynod.org or 402-896-5311.

Learn More 

The ELCA Fund for Leaders scholarship program supports students of tremendous promise attending ELCA seminaries. By making seminary more affordable, the ELCA Fund for Leaders enables more future ministers to go to seminary and helps them graduate with less debt, empowering those whom God calls into ministry to go and serve as the church needs and the Holy Spirit leads.

To be eligible, applicants must be planning to enroll at an ELCA seminary as first-year students (juniors) in the fall semester of the academic year, with no more than one semester’s worth of coursework already completed. Applicants must also have begun the ELCA candidacy process with the intent of becoming a rostered minister of either word and sacrament or word and service.

Click Here to Learn More & Apply

Candidate Plan

We ask that all candidates in the Nebraska Synod shared updated candidate plans throughout their candidacy process. This document helps strengthen the partnership among candidates, the committee, and the seminary. If you have not yet filled out a Candidate Plan, or your plans have changed from your original plan, please take the time to fill out and send in a completed plan. You may find it helpful to consult with your Relator/Contact Person when working on your Candidate Plan. 

Download a blank Candidate Plan

FERPA

Throughout the Candidacy Process, you are expected to submit an updated FERPA form to your seminary registrar, CC candidacy@nebraskasynod.org. This form provides consent to release student information and may include records such as transcripts, disciplinary records, academic advising notes, records of internship, etc. 

Download a blank FERPA form

Candidacy Travel Assistance Form 

The Candidacy Travel Assistance Fund was created by the generous gifts of Nebraska Synod individuals and congregations. The goal of this fund is to help relieve the financial burden of travel for meetings and retreats for those pursuing ordained ministry. 

Download the Form