This is important because the IRS may not recognize the ministerial status of those (you included) who receive an ordination or other ministerial credentials from your church, without the proper language in your bylaws and Articles of Incorporation.

Criteria to be met may include, but is not limited to, classes, on-the-job training, volunteer work at the church, or being involved in the local ministry.

A fee creates an opportunity for the church to once more confirm that the candidate agrees with the sincerely held religious beliefs of the church.

By requiring candidates to take and pass an exam helps to establish that candidates go through a considered, deliberate, and responsible act.

The ordination ceremony is a celebration of the fulfillment of completing the process they just went through in order to be ordained.

By including an expiration date, a minister that leaves on bad terms can only be tied to the organization for the period of time on the credentials.

This can be accomplished by having the minister submit a renewal application or having the minister submit a written letter requesting a renewal.

These records should include background and reference checks, and kept in a safe place.

It is important to confirm in several ways that the person you are ordaining believes the same thing that you do.

In the court case, Cramer vs. Commonwealth, a group of ministers had their ordination revoked because the did not stay in contact with their ordainaing church. Don't let this happen to you or those you have ordained?