License to Preach (Methodist)

A License to Preach in Methodist and related churches was the official authorization of a person to preach the Gospel and to do other tasks of ministry so authorized (often including administering the Sacraments). Such a license was usually issued by a District Superintendent or Bishop and was required to be reaffirmed at regular intervals (usually annually).

In the United Methodist Church today this practice is continued in the issuing of Local Pastor's Licenses, authorizing such persons to preach, administer the Sacraments, and do other tasks of ministry in the local church to which such person is appointed.