Ministerial Credentialing in the Baptist Churches of New Zealand

Abstract

New Zealand Baptists have taken a variety of approaches to their ministry. The nature of ordination has been a contested issue. 

For most of the twentieth century, a system of denominational accreditation operated, to ensure the smooth movement of ministers between congregations. 

In the 1990s a registration model was adopted, requiring ongoing supervision and development.

This essay examines the history of these changes and assesses the impact of the registration system.