SECTION 1
INTRODUCTION & GOVERNANCE
Approved policy text | Ministerial Policy & Credentialing Manual | Version 1.1
1.1 Purpose of This Manual
This Ministerial Policy & Credentialing Manual has been prepared to establish the governing policies, credentialing framework, and ministerial standards of the United Ministerial Fellowship (UMF)—the ecclesiastical oversight arm of NVIS International Ministries, Inc., operating through Rhema of Hope.
It serves as the official governing guide for ministers, missionaries, churches, and affiliated ministries associated with UMF, providing clarity regarding:
1. Ministerial credentialing, licensing, commissioning, endorsement, and ordination requirements;
2. Recognition of prior ministerial experience, reciprocity, comity, and approved credentialing equivalencies;
3. Spiritual accountability, doctrinal adherence, and ministerial conduct;
4. Ethical expectations, disciplinary procedures, appeals, and restoration;
5. Ecclesiastical oversight, church affiliation, and ministry governance;
6. Ministerial training, education, and leadership development in cooperation with Rhema Global Education System (RGES);
7. Coordination with Hope Beyond Borders (HBB) for missionary credentialing, commissioning, and field supervision.
This Manual establishes the policies and standards applicable to individuals and organizations operating under the recognized ecclesiastical authority of UMF.
Credentialed ministers, affiliated churches, missionaries, and recognized ministries shall comply with the provisions applicable to their respective credentials, affiliations, and ministry responsibilities.
All ministerial credentialing and advancement decisions shall be governed by the officially adopted UMF Credentialing & Licensing Framework and Credentialing Pathways Overview, including provisions for experienced ministers and the mandatory Pastoral License prerequisite for Reverend Ordination.
This Manual shall serve as the governing reference for ministerial recognition, accountability, and cooperative fellowship among those committed to advancing the Gospel of Jesus Christ through biblical integrity, servant leadership, and Kingdom purpose.
1.2 About United Ministerial Fellowship
The United Ministerial Fellowship (UMF) is a global, non-denominational Christian fellowship of ministers, pastors, missionaries, churches, and ministries dedicated to advancing the Gospel of Jesus Christ through unity, integrity, spiritual accountability, and faithful Christian service.
Operating as an outreach ministry of Rhema of Hope, under the legal organization of NVIS International Ministries, Inc., UMF provides a structured framework for ministerial credentialing, licensing, commissioning, endorsement, ordination, leadership development, and ecclesiastical oversight.
UMF exists to:
1. Equip Ministers — Provide biblical education, ministerial training, mentorship, and opportunities for continued spiritual and leadership development.
2. Empower Ministries — Recognize ministerial calling and qualifications through credentialing, licensing, ordination, and organizational support.
3. Strengthen Churches — Encourage healthy church leadership, spiritual accountability, cooperation, and the development of sustainable Christian ministries throughout the world.
UMF recognizes that individuals are called to serve in different capacities and that ministerial preparation may occur through formal education, practical experience, mentorship, and years of faithful Christian service.
Accordingly, UMF provides credentialing pathways for both emerging and experienced ministers, including provisions for recognition of prior ministry experience, reciprocity, comity, and approved advanced placement, subject to the standards and review procedures established by the UMF Credentialing Board.
As a non-denominational fellowship, UMF seeks to encourage cooperation among Christian ministers and churches while maintaining its commitment to the authority of Scripture, belief in one God, the Gospel of Jesus Christ, Christian character, and responsible spiritual leadership.
UMF provides a framework through which ministers and churches may establish meaningful relationships, receive guidance and encouragement, pursue ministerial recognition, and participate in a worldwide fellowship committed to advancing the work of Jesus Christ.
Through cooperation with Rhema of Hope and its outreach ministries, including Hope Beyond Borders and Rhema Global Education System, UMF seeks to equip ministers, empower ministries, and strengthen churches for lasting Kingdom impact.
1.3 Relationship Between UMF, NVIS International Ministries, and Rhema of Hope
United Ministerial Fellowship (UMF) operates as an outreach ministry of Rhema of Hope, under the legal and organizational authority of NVIS International Ministries, Inc.
NVIS International Ministries, Inc. serves as the legally established nonprofit organization responsible for corporate governance, organizational accountability, and the administration of its ministries and outreach programs. Rhema of Hope serves as the public-facing ministry umbrella through which the organization’s Christian mission, outreach initiatives, and affiliated ministry programs are carried out.
Within this organizational structure, the following ministries operate under Rhema of Hope, each fulfilling a distinct but complementary purpose:
NVIS International Ministries, Inc. — Legal and Corporate Governance
NVIS International Ministries, Inc. provides the legal foundation, corporate oversight, financial accountability, and administrative governance necessary to support the organization’s ministry activities and international operations.
Rhema of Hope — Public-Facing Ministry Umbrella
Rhema of Hope represents the public ministry identity of NVIS International Ministries, Inc. and provides the organizational framework through which its outreach ministries, educational initiatives, and Christian service programs operate.
United Ministerial Fellowship (UMF) — Ministerial Credentialing and Ecclesiastical Oversight
UMF serves as the ministerial fellowship, credentialing, and ecclesiastical oversight ministry of Rhema of Hope. Its responsibilities include ministerial licensing, commissioning, endorsement, ordination, church affiliation, spiritual accountability, leadership development, and the recognition of qualified ministers.
The UMF Credentialing Board is responsible for reviewing and approving ministerial credentials, including applications involving reciprocity, comity, recognition of prior ministry experience, and advanced placement, in accordance with the official UMF credentialing framework and policies.
Hope Beyond Borders (HBB) — Missions and International Outreach
Hope Beyond Borders serves as the missions and international outreach ministry of Rhema of Hope. Its responsibilities include missionary support, missions development, field coordination, international outreach, and humanitarian ministry initiatives.
HBB may cooperate with UMF in matters involving missionary commissioning, ministerial recognition, spiritual accountability, and credential verification while maintaining its own operational responsibilities under Rhema of Hope.
Rhema Global Education System (RGES) — Education and Ministerial Development
Rhema Global Education System serves as the educational outreach ministry of Rhema of Hope, supporting Christian education, ministerial preparation, leadership development, and continuing education.
RGES may cooperate with UMF in the development, administration, and delivery of approved ministerial training programs, including educational pathways associated with UMF credentialing.
UMF retains responsibility for establishing its ministerial credentialing standards and determining whether educational requirements have been satisfied, including approved equivalencies and recognition of prior learning.
Cooperation and Organizational Accountability
All outreach ministries operate under the organizational authority of Rhema of Hope and the legal governance of NVIS International Ministries, Inc.
Each ministry maintains its designated responsibilities while cooperating with other outreach ministries when their programs, activities, or areas of service intersect.
This cooperative structure promotes organizational unity, responsible leadership, administrative accountability, and the effective use of shared resources while preserving the distinct mission and operational responsibilities of each ministry.
Together, these ministries advance the shared Christian mission of Rhema of Hope through ministerial development, education, missions, spiritual leadership, and service to communities throughout the world.
1.4 Statement of Faith & Biblical Foundations
United Ministerial Fellowship (UMF) is a non-denominational Christian fellowship committed to advancing the Gospel of Jesus Christ, strengthening Christian ministry, and encouraging faithful service according to the teachings of Holy Scripture.
United Ministerial Fellowship is non-denominational in its organizational identity and fellowship structure. UMF does not identify itself with a particular denomination or theological movement, but maintains established biblical beliefs and convictions founded upon Holy Scripture. These beliefs guide the fellowship’s Christian mission, ministerial education, spiritual accountability, and leadership standards.
The following biblical convictions establish the spiritual foundation of United Ministerial Fellowship and guide its ministry, leadership, credentialing, and fellowship activities.
1. Belief in One God
We believe in one God, the Creator of heaven and earth, who is eternal, sovereign, holy, loving, and faithful. We acknowledge God as the source of all life, truth, wisdom, and salvation.
Deuteronomy 6:4; Isaiah 44:6; Mark 12:29
2. Faith in Jesus Christ
We believe in Jesus Christ as Lord and Savior, whose life, teachings, death, burial, and resurrection reveal God’s love and provide the foundation of the Christian faith.
We affirm that salvation and reconciliation with God are made possible through Jesus Christ.
John 3:16–17; Acts 4:12; 1 Corinthians 15:3–4
3. Salvation and Christian Faith
We believe that salvation is made available through the grace and mercy of God through Jesus Christ.
We affirm the importance of repentance, faith, baptism, spiritual renewal, and a continuing commitment to following Jesus Christ.
Acts 2:38; Ephesians 2:8–10; Romans 10:9–10
4. The Holy Scriptures
We believe the Holy Bible is the inspired Word of God and the foundation for Christian faith, teaching, spiritual growth, and ministerial conduct.
Scripture provides guidance for understanding God’s will, developing Christian character, and fulfilling the responsibilities of ministry.
2 Timothy 3:16–17; Psalm 119:105; Hebrews 4:12
5. Christian Living and Spiritual Integrity
We believe Christians are called to live lives that reflect the teachings and character of Jesus Christ.
We affirm the importance of holiness, integrity, humility, compassion, honesty, faithfulness, and responsible conduct in personal life and public ministry.
Those entrusted with ministerial responsibilities are expected to demonstrate exemplary Christian character and accountability.
1 Peter 1:15–16; Galatians 5:22–23; Colossians 3:12–17
6. The Church and the Great Commission
We believe the Church is the Body of Christ, called to worship God, proclaim the Gospel, make disciples, serve others, and demonstrate the love of Jesus Christ throughout the world.
We affirm the importance of local congregations, Christian fellowship, spiritual leadership, and cooperation among believers in fulfilling the Great Commission.
Matthew 28:19–20; Mark 16:15; Ephesians 4:11–16
7. Ministerial Calling and Spiritual Accountability
We believe Christian ministry is a sacred calling that requires spiritual maturity, biblical understanding, moral integrity, and a commitment to serving others.
Ministers are entrusted with responsibilities that require humility, accountability, faithful stewardship, and adherence to the principles of Christian leadership established in Scripture.
1 Timothy 3:1–7; Titus 1:5–9; 1 Peter 5:2–4
Statement of Commitment
United Ministerial Fellowship welcomes Christian ministers, churches, missionaries, and ministries who share its commitment to the Gospel of Jesus Christ, biblical integrity, responsible spiritual leadership, and the advancement of Christian ministry.
All individuals seeking UMF ministerial credentials and all organizations seeking formal affiliation shall acknowledge the fellowship’s Statement of Faith and agree to uphold the biblical, ethical, and ministerial standards applicable to their respective relationship with UMF.
UMF recognizes that Christian ministers and churches may come from different backgrounds and traditions. Such differences shall be approached with respect and Christian charity, provided that applicants meet the requirements established by the UMF Credentialing Board and the governing policies of the fellowship.
1.5 Mission, Vision, Motto, and Core Values
United Ministerial Fellowship is guided by a clearly defined mission, vision, motto, and set of core values that reflect its commitment to biblical integrity, ministerial development, spiritual accountability, and worldwide Christian fellowship.
These principles provide direction for UMF’s credentialing programs, leadership development, church affiliation, and cooperative ministry activities.
Mission Statement
United Ministerial Fellowship is a global, non-denominational Christian fellowship of ministers and churches dedicated to advancing the Gospel of Jesus Christ. We exist to equip ministers, empower ministries, and strengthen churches through biblical education, ministerial credentialing, spiritual accountability, and cooperative fellowship—fostering unity, integrity, and Kingdom purpose so that the Gospel may reach every nation.
Vision Statement
To see a worldwide fellowship of equipped ministers, empowered ministries, and strengthened churches working together to proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ, develop faithful Christian leaders, and advance God’s Kingdom through biblical truth, spiritual integrity, and compassionate service.
Motto
Equipping Ministers. Empowering Ministries. Strengthening Churches.
The Three Pillars of United Ministerial Fellowship
Equip Ministers
To prepare, educate, mentor, and support individuals called to Christian ministry by providing opportunities for biblical education, credentialing, leadership development, and continuing ministerial growth.
Empower Ministries
To recognize, encourage, and support Christian ministries through ministerial licensing, commissioning, ordination, leadership resources, and spiritual accountability, enabling them to fulfill their God-given missions with integrity and effectiveness.
Strengthen Churches
To support the spiritual health, leadership, development, and long-term stability of local churches through fellowship, guidance, pastoral support, ministerial accountability, and cooperative relationships.
Core Values
1. Biblical Truth & Integrity
We uphold the authority of Holy Scripture as the foundation of Christian faith, ministerial conduct, and spiritual leadership. We are committed to faithfully representing biblical truth through our teaching, decisions, and actions.
2. Spiritual Accountability & Character
We believe ministerial leadership requires personal integrity, spiritual maturity, holiness, and a willingness to remain accountable. We encourage ministers to demonstrate Christ-like character in both their public responsibilities and private lives.
3. Servant Leadership
We believe Christian leadership is a calling to serve rather than a position of personal privilege. We seek to lead through humility, compassion, faithfulness, and the example of Jesus Christ.
4. Unity of the Body of Christ
We encourage cooperation, mutual respect, and meaningful fellowship among Christian ministers, churches, and ministries. We recognize that believers may come from different backgrounds while sharing a commitment to advancing the Gospel of Jesus Christ.
5. Excellence in Ministry
We are committed to responsible stewardship, ethical administration, continued improvement, and excellence in ministerial service. We believe ministry responsibilities should be carried out with diligence, transparency, professionalism, and faithfulness.
6. Discipleship & Mentorship
We believe in investing in the spiritual development and preparation of present and future Christian leaders. Through teaching, encouragement, practical experience, and mentorship, we seek to develop ministers who are equipped to serve faithfully and effectively.
7. Global Mission
We are committed to advancing the Gospel of Jesus Christ throughout the world by supporting ministers, missionaries, churches, and Christian outreach initiatives. We seek to encourage sustainable ministry development and strengthen Christian communities across cultural and geographical boundaries.
Commitment to Our Mission and Values
These statements establish the guiding principles of United Ministerial Fellowship and shall inform its ministerial credentialing standards, leadership decisions, organizational relationships, and fellowship activities.
All UMF leaders, credentialed ministers, and affiliated ministries are expected to uphold these principles in accordance with their respective responsibilities and the governing policies of the fellowship.
1.6 Organizational Oversight & Governance Structure
United Ministerial Fellowship (UMF) operates as an outreach ministry of Rhema of Hope under the legal and corporate authority of NVIS International Ministries, Inc.
UMF maintains an organized ecclesiastical governance structure designed to promote responsible ministerial credentialing, spiritual accountability, ethical leadership, administrative integrity, and effective fellowship among ministers, churches, missionaries, and affiliated ministries throughout the world.
This structure recognizes the distinction between corporate governance, ministerial credentialing authority, regional spiritual oversight, and the responsibilities of credentialed ministers and affiliated organizations.
1.6.1 NVIS International Ministries, Inc. — Corporate Governance
The Board of Directors of NVIS International Ministries, Inc. holds ultimate corporate authority over the organization and its outreach ministries, including Rhema of Hope and United Ministerial Fellowship.
Its responsibilities include:
1. Maintaining legal and corporate compliance.
2. Providing organizational and financial oversight.
3. Establishing and maintaining appropriate administrative accountability.
4. Authorizing the establishment and operation of ministries and outreach programs.
5. Ensuring that organizational activities remain consistent with the mission, governing documents, and legal responsibilities of NVIS International Ministries, Inc.
The Board of Directors retains its corporate responsibilities while permitting UMF to administer its ministerial credentialing and ecclesiastical functions through the authority delegated to it.
1.6.2 Rhema of Hope — Ministry Oversight
Rhema of Hope serves as the public-facing ministry umbrella of NVIS International Ministries, Inc., providing organizational direction and coordination among its outreach ministries.
United Ministerial Fellowship, Hope Beyond Borders, and Rhema Global Education System operate as distinct outreach ministries under Rhema of Hope.
Each ministry fulfills its designated responsibilities while cooperating with other ministries in matters involving education, missions, Christian service, leadership development, and organizational support.
Rhema of Hope promotes unity of mission, responsible administration, and cooperation among its outreach ministries.
1.6.3 United Ministerial Fellowship Credentialing Board
The United Ministerial Fellowship Credentialing Board (UMF Credentialing Board) serves as the designated ecclesiastical authority responsible for administering UMF’s ministerial credentialing framework and associated accountability procedures.
The Board operates under the organizational authority of NVIS International Ministries, Inc., through Rhema of Hope, and in accordance with the officially adopted policies of United Ministerial Fellowship.
Its responsibilities include:
1. Reviewing and approving applications for ministerial licenses, commissioning, endorsements, and ordination.
2. Evaluating applicants’ ministerial qualifications, biblical understanding, experience, character, and readiness for their requested credentials.
3. Reviewing applications involving reciprocity, comity, recognition of prior ministerial experience, and advanced placement.
4. Determining whether applicants have satisfied applicable educational and credentialing requirements, including approved equivalencies.
5. Administering credential renewals and maintaining standards for continued good standing.
6. Overseeing ministerial accountability, credential-related complaints, disciplinary reviews, and restoration procedures.
7. Maintaining accurate credentialing records and ensuring that credentialing decisions are properly documented.
8. Reviewing credentialing policies and recommending revisions when necessary.
The UMF Credentialing Board shall exercise its responsibilities consistently with the official UMF Credentialing & Licensing Framework, Credentialing Pathways Overview, and this Manual.
No credentialing decision may waive the requirement that a candidate for Reverend Ordination (Level 8) must first hold a valid Pastoral License (Level 7).
The composition, appointment, terms of service, and internal procedures of the UMF Credentialing Board shall be established through approved organizational governance policies.
1.6.4 Regional Presbyters or Overseers
To support the fellowship’s international mission, UMF may establish regional oversight positions for designated geographic areas, countries, or territories.
Regional Presbyters or Overseers may be appointed to provide spiritual guidance, ministerial encouragement, accountability support, and communication between affiliated ministers, churches, and UMF leadership.
Their responsibilities may include:
1. Supporting credentialed ministers and affiliated churches within their assigned regions.
2. Providing pastoral guidance, mentorship, and spiritual encouragement.
3. Assisting with ministerial credentialing inquiries and applicant verification.
4. Encouraging compliance with UMF policies and ministerial standards.
5. Reporting significant ministerial concerns or regional developments to the UMF Credentialing Board.
6. Supporting church development, ministerial fellowship, and regional leadership initiatives.
Regional Presbyters or Overseers shall not independently issue, revoke, or modify UMF ministerial credentials unless specifically authorized under an approved policy.
Regional oversight appointments, jurisdictions, reporting relationships, and delegated responsibilities shall be established through separate organizational procedures.
1.6.5 Credentialed Ministers and Affiliated Organizations
Ministers, missionaries, churches, and ministries holding recognized UMF credentials or affiliations are expected to conduct their activities in accordance with the standards and responsibilities applicable to their respective relationships with UMF.
These responsibilities include:
1. Upholding UMF’s Statement of Faith and biblical foundations.
2. Maintaining appropriate Christian character, ministerial integrity, and ethical conduct.
3. Complying with credential renewal, reporting, and continuing education requirements where applicable.
4. Participating in appropriate spiritual accountability and oversight.
5. Maintaining accurate credentialing and affiliation records.
6. Cooperating with authorized UMF representatives in matters relating to credentialing and ministerial accountability.
UMF recognizes the local governance and operational responsibilities of affiliated churches and ministries, subject to the terms of their affiliation agreements and applicable UMF policies.
1.6.6 Cooperation with Other Rhema of Hope Outreach Ministries
United Ministerial Fellowship maintains cooperative relationships with Hope Beyond Borders and Rhema Global Education System.
Hope Beyond Borders is responsible for missions development, missionary field operations, international outreach, and associated mission support activities.
Rhema Global Education System supports educational development, ministerial training, leadership preparation, and continuing education.
UMF remains responsible for its own ministerial credentialing decisions, including the approval of credentials for individuals serving in missionary, educational, pastoral, or other recognized ministry capacities.
Cooperation among these ministries shall respect their respective organizational responsibilities and the common mission of Rhema of Hope.
1.6.7 Governance Accountability
All UMF governing bodies, appointed representatives, credentialed ministers, and affiliated organizations shall operate within the scope of their established authority and responsibilities.
Governance decisions shall be guided by biblical principles, organizational integrity, fair and consistent administration, responsible stewardship, and the mission and values of United Ministerial Fellowship.
This governance structure is intended to provide a foundation for accountable Christian leadership while supporting the growth of a unified, non-denominational fellowship serving ministers and churches throughout the world.