Faith
The Steps to Become a Pastor: By Pastor Eric Capaci
By Pastor Eric Capaci, Founder of Gospel Light Baptist Church and Champion Christian College
For over 32 years, I’ve had the privilege of serving as a pastor, a calling that has profoundly shaped my life and allowed me to serve others with the gospel of Jesus Christ. As the founder of Champion Christian College, my heart beats with a passion for equipping the next generation of Christian leaders, training them to lead with faith, integrity, and compassion. If you feel called to pastoral ministry, there are important steps to consider on your journey. There are some clear steps to take in the path to becoming a pastor, a journey deeply rooted in scripture, character development, and a commitment to serve.
The first step is simple yet profound: confirm God’s call on your life. Pastoral ministry isn’t just a career—it’s a calling. In 1 Timothy 3:1, Paul writes, “If anyone aspires to be an overseer (a pastor), he desires a noble work” (CSB). Prayer, study, and spiritual counsel from trusted mentors are crucial to discerning God’s direction. Your call will be the foundation that sustains you through challenges and blessings alike.
Training is essential for effective ministry. A solid foundation in the Word of God, theology, and pastoral ministry skills prepares you to shepherd others well. Pursuing a degree in pastoral studies or a related field, like the programs offered at Champion Christian College, provides the education and skills you need to teach, counsel, and lead others. Our faculty, experienced in ministry, teach students how to apply biblical truth to today’s challenges, preparing you to meet the needs of the church and community with a strong scriptural academic foundation.
A pastor must be a person of integrity, humility, and self-discipline. In Titus 1:7-8, Paul outlines qualities essential for a pastor: “An overseer (a pastor) of God’s household...must be blameless, not arrogant...self-controlled, upright, holy, and disciplined” (CSB). These traits aren’t achieved overnight but developed through daily commitment to Christlike living. My life verse, John 3:30 teaches, “He must increase, but I must decrease” (CSB), the path of ministry is one of humility, always putting Christ in first place and the at the center.
Pastoral ministry is about serving people, so practical experience is invaluable. Look for opportunities to serve in your church or community. For me, the years spent as a youth pastor were foundational. Serving in youth ministry gave me hands-on experience with teaching, leadership, and relationship-building—skills that are critical in pastoral ministry. Champion Christian College encourages students to engage in hands-on ministry experiences, allowing them to learn servant leadership by working alongside seasoned pastors. Whether teaching a Bible study, leading worship, or organizing outreach events, real-world experience is essential preparation.
Ministry isn’t meant to be done alone. Connect with mentors who can offer wisdom and encouragement. Learn from those who have walked the path before you. At Champion, our faculty provides guidance and support to our students, helping them stay grounded, encouraged, and spiritually sharp as they prepare for their calling. A mentor’s guidance is invaluable, offering insight and encouragement as you prepare for ordination and pastoral work.
While at college, I met my wife, Carolann, and her unwavering support has been essential to my ministry. Having a godly, supportive wife who shares a heart for ministry brings strength and stability to a pastor’s life. If God has called you to marriage, seek a partner who is equally devoted to serving the Lord, and one who will walk alongside you in this calling.
Pastoral ministry is a lifelong journey of growth. As culture shifts, so do the challenges facing the church, requiring pastors to continually develop and adapt. Champion Christian College encourages a spirit of lifelong learning in our students, equipping them with the tools to remain steadfast and effective throughout their ministry.
Ordination is the final step in confirming your calling and readiness for ministry. Ordination is typically a recognition by a church or ministry body that you meet the spiritual, educational, and experiential requirements to serve as a pastor. This step marks a formal acknowledgment of your calling and serves as a public affirmation of your commitment to serve. Ordination requirements may vary, but they often involve an interview process, doctrinal examination, and pastoral affirmation.
As you prepare to step into a pastoral role, it’s important to present yourself professionally. A solid résumé that reflects your education, experience, and character, alongside strong references, will support your calling. This document should detail your academic background, ministry experience, and skills acquired, showing churches that you have the dedication, preparation, and support needed to lead well. Personal references from mentors and ministry leaders can also attest to your character and readiness for ministry.
Finally, as you pursue your calling, remember that God is faithful to lead you to the right place for ministry and to equip you for the work. 1 Thessalonians 5:24 reminds us, “He who calls you is faithful; he will do it” (CSB). God’s faithfulness not only confirms His calling on your life but also guides you step by step, equipping you for the responsibilities ahead. Trust that He will open doors and lead you to the right place to serve.
At Champion Christian College, our mission is to provide the foundation and training future pastors need to serve effectively. If you feel called to ministry, we invite you to join us and let us help you prepare for a life of faithful service.