candidating
Candidating is a term sometimes used to describe the process of being considered for a role, typically within a religious context. It is often associated with churches and the selection of pastors or other ministerial positions. The term implies that an individual is actively being evaluated and interviewed by a congregation or a search committee to determine their suitability for a particular position. This process can involve a series of meetings, sermons delivered by the candidate, and discussions about their theological views, leadership style, and vision for the church. The goal of candidating is to ensure a good fit between the candidate and the community they would be serving. It is a period of mutual discernment, where both the candidate and the church have the opportunity to assess each other. The outcome of the candidating process can lead to an invitation for the candidate to accept the position, or it can result in the church deciding to continue its search. The specific steps and duration of candidating can vary significantly from one denomination or church to another.