Use of the Title “Reverend” for Commissioned Ministers

Use of the Title “Reverend” for Commissioned Ministers

Clarification in the Context of SDM (Sunshine Destiny Ministries)

In general Christian practice, the use of clerical titles such as “Reverend” varies depending on denominational traditions and the policies of the overseeing body. 

Below is a breakdown of how this applies within SDM, as well as within the broader Christian context:

✅ SDM Context (Sunshine Destiny Ministries)

Title of “Minister”

This title is officially granted upon successful commissioning by SDM. It recognizes a person’s calling and authorizes them to function in ministry under the spiritual oversight and legal covering of the organization.

Title of “Reverend”

This is not automatically conferred with commissioning. SDM distinguishes clearly between the role of a Minister and the clerical title Reverend, which is reserved for individuals who have undergone a separate process of ordination or ecclesiastical elevation.

Official Position:

A commissioned Minister within SDM should not use the title “Reverend” unless that designation has been specifically conferred by the SDM Credentials Committee or Oversight Council through a recognized ordination or credentialing process.

📖 Wider Christian Practice (Global Perspective)

In most mainline denominations (e.g., Anglican, Methodist, Baptist), the title “Reverend” is formally used only for ordained clergy.

A commissioned individual, though authorized for ministry, is not necessarily ordained and hence not automatically referred to as “Reverend.”

In some independent or non-denominational settings, the use of “Reverend” may be more flexible, but it remains widely understood as a formal clerical title.

📊 Summary Table

Title         SDM View                                                            Ordination Required                     

Minister Conferred upon SDM commissioning ❌ No

Reverend Not automatically granted by SDM ✅ Yes, usually

🔍 Need Clarification?

If you are referring to a specific individual and are unsure whether they may use the title “Reverend,” this must be verified with the SDM Credentials Committee or Oversight Council. Only these bodies have the authority to confer or recognize such a title within the SDM framework.