Ordination to the Diaconate Chart

After at least eighteen months from the time of written acceptance of nomination by the Nominee and upon attainment of at least twenty-four years of age, a person may be ordained deacon.

According to Title III, Canon 6, Section 6a.

I think I’m called to ordained ministry. How do I begin?

Work with your priest or rector to form a discernment committee in your parish. The Commission on Ministry can help! Please contact the Ven. Aaron Perkins.
Use the discernment curriculum
Work with the discernment committee will take at least 6 months

I’ve decided to pursue ordained ministry. What’s next?

Request that your vestry or bishop’s committee nominate you for postulancy
Fill out the postulancy application which will include letters of support from your vestry and priest
Complete a psychological assessment and background check
Make an appointment with the bishop
Meet with the Commission on Ministry (COM) to request to be admitted as a postulant

The bishop has admitted me as a postulant. Now I study, right?

Enroll in the Province I School for Deacons
Decide with COM when you will start and finish
Receive a COM companion
Completing your education generally takes 3 years

I’m halfway through my education. What do I need to do now?

Complete the application for candidacy. This will include an academic evaluation and recommendation
Complete a CPE report with your supervisor (if completed)
Obtain transcripts of education completed outside the Deacon Formation Program (DFP)
Submit a field education report from you and your supervisor
Provide certifications (with dates) for Safe Church (A), Court Mandated Reporting (B), Title IV, Anti-Racism training
After applying and providing necessary documents, your candidacy will be approved or not through a required interview with The Standing Committee and if they determine there is not sufficient objection on medical, psychological, moral, doctrinal, or spiritual grounds, they will recommend ordination

I’m prepared. I’ve spent a period of time as a candidate and completed my education. What are the final steps?

Apply for ordination to the diaconate. This will include a transcript from your education source.
Make an appointment with the bishop to discuss placement options
Note that your ordination date will be set with input from the bishop, sponsoring parish or cathedral, and the ordinand (that’s you!)