About
It isn’t uncommon for people to want a change: switch up careers, try something new. Perhaps public ministry is a path you have never considered. However, your experiences and skills from a secular career are an amazing blessing that God could use as a staff minister, pastor, or teacher. Ministry Recruitment Counselors exist to answer your questions and have honest conversations about what this change might mean for you and your family.
Common Questions
Is it realistic to pursue ministry after an established career?
Absolutely. WELS welcomes second-career candidates, and the life experience you bring enriches both your training cohort and the congregations you’ll serve. The path is structured but navigable.
What does the second-career path actually look like?
You would still complete training through Martin Luther College and (for pastoral ministry) Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary. If you already hold a degree, MLC can evaluate what transfers and build a plan for you. Staff ministry programs offer additional track options.
Will my previous career experience carry any weight?
Very much so. Whether you’re coming from business, healthcare, education, or the military, your professional skills and life perspective are genuine assets in pastoral care, administration, and community ministry.
What about the financial transition?
It’s a real consideration. Scholarship resources, financial planning support, and congregational backing are available, and a Ministry Recruitment Counselor can help you think through the numbers honestly and practically.
How do I know which track is right for me: pastor, teacher, or staff minister?
Each serves a distinct role. A spiritual gift survey and a personal consultation with a Ministry Recruitment Counselor are the best starting points to help match your gifts and experience to the right path.
What if my spouse isn’t sure about this yet?
That’s one of the most important conversations to have early. A Ministry Recruitment Counselor can meet with both of you to answer questions, address concerns, and help you work through the decision together.
What’s my first step?
Schedule a personal consultation with a Ministry Recruitment Counselor. There’s no pressure: It’s simply a chance to ask honest questions and explore whether you might prayerfully consider this path.
View Resources
WELS Mission Journeys
Experience ministry firsthand through a short-term experience at a WELS mission.
Schedule a Consultation
Take the first step toward exploring ministry as a second career with a personal conversation with a ministry recruitment counselor.
Synod Certification
Become certified to serve in full-time gospel ministry in the Wisconsin Evangelical Lutheran Synod (WELS) as a teacher or staff minister.
Non-Traditional Student Guide
Find guidance for navigating the path into ministry as an adult with a unique background and life experience.
Spiritual Gift Survey
Reflect on the gifts God has given you and discover how those gifts might be used in a life of full-time ministry service.
Schedule a Consultation
Ministry Recruitment Counselors are here to have low-pressure conversations, answer your questions honestly, and provide the support and resources you need. Schedule a time to talk sometime soon.