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Understanding Youth Ministry Certification

Frequently Asked Questions

What's the term?

Initial certification is for three years, then certification may be renewed every five years. Renewal is based upon a history of commitment to ongoing ministerial development.

Why should I be certified? I already have a job.

Certification provides youth ministry leaders with official recognition from the Archdiocese of Cincinnati for their competence relative to national standards for lay ecclesial ministers, and affirms their commitment to high standards of professionalism and ongoing education and formation. It is the desire of the Archbishop of Cincinnati that all staff-level youth ministry personnel be certified, so as to ensure the best ministry possible with our young people. Finally, in the event of a job change, certification serves as a portable credential that formally affirms your capabilities.

What does "competency-based" mean?

This approach to certification is based on a comprehensive assessment of an individual's competence (knowledge, skills and attitudes), rather than completion of a particular program of training or education. Competency-based certification acknowledges that there are many paths to competence in ministry, and accommodates those with varied educational and ministerial backgrounds.
 

Can I be "grandparented" into certification?

The time for grandparenting into certification has now expired.

What's the cost?

A $40 application fee offsets the administrative expenses related to certification.