Synod Authorized Ministry

About Synod Authorized Ministry

Learn about Synod Authorized Ministers serving Northwestern Minnesota. Discover how they provide spiritual leadership and support church partnerships.

VIEW THE SAM HANDBOOK

Continuing Education & Formation

Explore continuing education opportunities through our Region 3 partners.

Region 3 Lay Ministry

Start Your Journey

We appreciate your prayerful discernment. Becoming a Synod Authorized Minister (SAM) is a meaningful journey of faith, preparation, and community. The process involves application, reference checks, educational steps, mentorship, and formal authorization.

Feel free to engage in discernment conversations before starting the process.

Apply & Discern

Start Your Application Process

Complete SAM Application Pastor/Congregation Reference Form Congregational Recommendation Form

Formation & Pact

Guidelines & Agreements

SAM Licensure Covenant SAM Addendum SAM Education Plan Mentor/SAM Pact

Get Involved

Support & Growth

Annual Ministry Review Continuing Education Form SAM Profile Form Compensation Worksheet

Congregation Resources

Resources for Congregation Engagement

Learn About SAM Recommend Your Congregation Background Check Form Compensation Details

Mentor Support

Mentor Resources & Guidelines

Mentor Role Description Mentor/SAM Agreement Mentor Reimbursement Form

Meet Your SAM Coordinator

Questions? Let's Connect!

Synod Authorized Ministry is a shared journey of discernment, formation, and partnership. If you have questions about any stage of the process — whether you are exploring, serving, mentoring, or representing a congregation — we invite you to reach out.

Kip Fontaine serves as the SAM Coordinator for the Northwestern Minnesota Synod and can help guide you through the next steps.

Contact Kip

Synod Assembly 2026