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Catehismul Bisericii Nouapostolice

7.7 Ordination

Authority, blessing, and sanctification issue forth from the Apostle ministry in order to equip ministers for their work in the congregations.

Ordination to a spiritual ministry is performed by the Apostle in the name of the triune God through laying on of hands and prayer (see 12.1.12). In the exercise of his ministry, the minister is accountable to, and dependent on, the Apostle ministry.

During the ordination, the specific ministerial power is imparted and the corresponding authority is issued by the Apostle ministry, be it for the work of a diaconal ministry, priestly ministry, or Apostle. Upon this foundation, the minister will be able to fulfil the functions assigned to him.

Through the ordination, the minister is blessed and sanctified for his work. Available talents are awakened and consecrated for the exercise of the ministry.

Ordination is not a sacrament, but rather an act of blessing. The holiness of this act and the serving character of this ministry are demonstrated by the fact that the ministry is received on one's knees. The minister being ordained makes a vow before the Apostle to remain faithful to God and follow Christ, and promises obedience of faith.

In principle, being designated for a ministry is not based upon human will but upon the divine will. It is the task of the Apostle to recognise God's will and act in accordance with it.

Divine blessing is imparted during the ordination. It contains the assurance of the Holy Spirit's strength and support, as well as the protection of the angels' service.

A minister cannot perform his duties on the basis of his own abilities, but rather only in oneness with the apostolate and in the power of the Holy Spirit. The Apostle ministry is authoritative for doctrine and serves as a model for the proclamation of God's word by the other ministries.