I think I’m called to ordained ministry. How do I begin?
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
Submit letters of support from your vestry and priest with your application
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?
Decide with the Commission on Ministry (COM) on appropriate clinical pastoral experience (CPE), field study, and education options
Receive a COM companion
I’m halfway through my education. What do I need to do now?
Complete the application for candidacy which includes an academic evaluation and recommendation
Submit letters of support from your vestry and priest with your application
Complete a CPE report with your supervisor (if completed)
Obtain transcripts of academic work
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 meeting with The Standing Committee
I’m a candidate. What are the next steps?
Complete the application to the transitional diaconate here that includes recommendation from seminary or your alternate education source
Provide evidence of successful completion of GOE or equivalent
Make an appointment with the bishop and the diocesan transition officer to discuss placement options as a transitional deacon and then priest
Complete your Office of Transition Ministry (OTM) Portfolio
Make sure all previous submitted materials are still current
I’m prepared. I’ve spent a period of at least 6 months as a Transitional Deacon. What are the final steps?
Apply for ordination to the priesthood
Submit letters of support from your vestry and priest with the application
Note that your ordination date will be set with input from the bishop, sponsoring parish or cathedral, and the ordinand (that’s you!)
