I'm not exactly answering the questions in the OP.

Before anyone dismisses education (and I do believe that "field training" is also essential to any successful training program), he should at least investigate the nature of the "sons of the prophets" who were associated with the ministries of Elijah and (primarily) Elisha.

refs:
1 Ki. 20:35
2 Ki. 2:3, 5, 7, 15
2 Ki. 4:1, 38
2 Ki. 5:22
2 Ki. 6:1
2 Ki. 9:1

Not every pastor can mentor another pastor. Not everyone is cut out for that work. Seminary has proven to be an efficient means of training, even if it isn't the only method we can think of. 3-4 years, given the work involved, plus other demands on many (most?) seminarian's time, is not an unreasonable commitment. Medical doctors need that much time, and more. So do Engineers and Architects. Should the ministry be less demanding? You be the judge.

Regarding ordination: this is the setting apart of a man with a call to serve in the church to the ministry. Men don't simply graduate, and then "get ordained," at least not in any well-ordered church. It does include the "laying on of the hands of Presbytery" (1 Tim. 4:14), and is the solemn setting apart of a man to be a church officer--deacon, elder, or minister. Examination is integral to ordination, but usually that happens well in advance of the charges, oaths, hands, and prayers.

__________________
Rev. Bruce G. Buchanan
ChainOLakes Presbyterian Church, CentralLake, MI


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