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Application for ordination to the transitional diaconate  

When the materials listed here are received by the Administrator of the Commission on Ministry, the application then will be considered at a quarterly Commission on Ministry meetings.

The application and materials must be received four weeks prior to a Commission on Ministry meeting. Check the diocesan calendar for current Commission on Ministry meeting dates.

To make an application, complete these steps. Note that references are to the Constitution and Canons 2006 of The Episcopal Church.

1. Submit an Application for Ordination to the Diaconate. (Title III.8.6.b.3)

2. Submit the “Letter of Support and Commitment” from the Vestry. (Title III.8.4.2)

Eligibility for ordination:

1. There should be no fewer than 18 months from the time of written acceptance of nomination to ordination to the diaconate. (Title III.8.6.a.1,2)

2. The candidate must be at least 24 years of age. (Title III.8.6.2.2)

3. Secure a ministry position. To be released from this diocese, the candidate must seek the Bishop’s approval.

To complete the application file, the candidate must contact those responsible for submitting the following information:

1. Certificate from the seminary or other program of preparation. (Title III.8.5.j)

2. Candidate must demonstrate basic competence in seven general areas as described in the canons. (Title III.8.5.g). General Ordination Examination (GOE) test scores are mailed to the diocesan office. The candidate may be requested to meet with the Board of Examining Chaplains before the Commission on Ministry writes a recommendation to the Council of Trustees (Standing Committee).

3. The Commission on Ministry may request an interview. A recommendation then is submitted to Standing Committee.

4. The Bishop submits a Certificate to Standing Committee with dates of the person’s postulancy and candidacy, obtained from the registrar. (Title III.8.6e2)

5. The Standing Committee Testimonial is given to the Bishop. (Title III.8.6f)