Process - Discernment about ordination


1		Steps for the person in the process	Home Parish	Member of clergy having oversight	Parish Discernment Group (PDG)	Vestry	Diocesan Office & Communications	Bishop	Commission on Ministry (COM)	Standing Committee	Psychiatrist, Dr., BG Check	Seminary	Source References

2		Be an active member of a congregation in Dio of FW (min. 1 yr.)	Observe person's ministry, etc						Post Day of Discovery date on Diocesan web calendar				Diocesan Practice
3	Aspi rant	Begin conversation with rector/ priest-in-charge		Listen, pray, provide counsel/ guidance			Communications: Publicize Day of Discovery and discernment process		Discuss publicity w/Communications				Diocese: Refer to "Handbook for Priest & Convener"
4		Attend Day of Discovery or discernment conference		Recommend Next Steps (including Day of Discovery)					Sponsor Day of Discovery (retreat?)				Diocesan Practice
5		Download Ordination Handbook & Postulancy Packet (#1 or #2) from Diocesan Website		Contact Chair of COM to inform of aspirant beginning process			Ensure that Ordination Handbook & Postulancy Packets are available on website		Add aspirant's name to "pipeline" and prayer list				Preference of this diocese
6		Make an appt. and introduce yourself to the Bishop or Canon (informal meeting) & Diocesan staff		Advise Aspirant to introduce him/herself to the Bishop or Canon			Create file to begin receiving paperwork; ask if they have rec'd most recent Ord. Handbook and correct Postulancy Packet; copy any emails to COM Chair	(Bishop or Canon) meet informally with aspirant for introductions; note meeting to COM Chair					Preference of this diocese
7		Complete Postulancy Packet (application and supplements); make 4 copies		If not already done, form PDG	Contact COM Chair to schedule training				Train PDG				Canon: III.3.1
8		Keep 1 copy in your files; Send 1 copy to Diocesan Office (verify receipt)			Become familiar with task & discernment materials, begin praying for aspirant		Receive & file postulancy packet
9		Give 1 copy to Priest/PDG and send 1 to Chair of COM		Provide packet to PDG	Read packet	Determine details of parish support (including financial and participation in preparation)			Receive Postulancy Packet				Canons: III.6.2.a	III.8.2.a
10				Contact Aspirant's previous rector									Canon: III.3.1
11		Meet with PDG	Pray for discernment process	Be available for questions, etc from PDG, aspirant	Meet with aspirant								Canon: III.3.4
12				Write report/letter	Write report to include with congregation's nomination for postulancy	Complete and sign report, including pledges of support							Canon: III.5.2.c
13		Receive & keep vestry, priest, & PDG reports		Receive PDG and vestry's reports	Give report to priest in charge & copy to person discerning	Give report to priest in charge & copy to person discerning							Diocesan Practice
14
15	Congregation's Decision - Nomination			Send 3 reports (from priest, PDG, & vestry) to Bishop & COM				Receive & read application & Priest, PDG, & vestry reports; give to office to file					Diocesan Practice
16
17	Nominee	Schedule an interview with the Bishop or Canon (depending on the Bishop's schedule)	Put into action various forms of support				Receive application documents from Bp, file; ask COM if they've received the application also	Note the date of interview with Nominee					Diocesan Practice
18		Meet with the Bishop or Canon						(Bishop or Canon) Meet with the Nominee					Canons: III.6.3.a	III.8.3.a
19		Wait until receiving written response; notify rector of response		Be available for questions, etc. ; let vestry know to expect 2 bills for BG check and exam				Send written notice to nominee with approval or denial of permission to continue in process (start BG check, psych, & phys. exams)					Diocesan Practice
20		If receiving permission, proceed with next steps
21		Send info to Dio. Office for background check (see handbook)					Initiate background check						Canons: III.6.5.j	Diocesan Policy
22		Make an appt. with PCEC (see handbook) and Dr.											Ordination Handbook
23		Obtain 5 forms from Diocesan Office or website (see handbook)					Provide Psychological and Medical Exam forms (5)						Ordination Handbook
24		2 wks before interview, send check to Diocesan Office (see handbook)					Receive payment						Diocesan Practice
25		Meet with psychologist & psychiatrist at PCEC									Psychologist & Psychiatrist - Return forms to Diocese		Canons: III.6.5.j	III.8.5.k
26		Immediately after interview, email Diocesan Office with the date of interview's completion (see handbook)					Initiate billing for psych. Exam						Diocesan Practice
27		Go to Dr. for physical (at your expense) Give the form & a stamped envelope addressed to Diocesan Office					Receive & file results				Dr. - Return form to Diocese		Canons: III.6.5.j.2	III.8.5.k	Diocesan Practice
28		Wait for written response from Bishop; touch base with rector	Continue to pray for the person, offer support	Be available / touch base with the person	Continue to pray for the person & keep in touch	Receive and pay bills from Diocese for BG check and psychological exam (1/3 cost of each)	Forward reports from background check, psychological and physical exams to the Bishop	Receive & review background check, psych. and phys. exam results (w/COM Chair if appropriate)			Background Check Company - return results to Diocese		III.6.5.j.1
29								Keep all reports/ exams as part of permanent diocesan record					Canons: III.6.6.k	III.8.5.k
30								Send written notice to nominee; if approved to meet with COM, send notice to COM also	Receive notice from Bishop of nominee's permission to meet with COM				III.6.3.b / 8.3.b	Diocesan Practice
31		IF receiving permission, call the Chair of the COM & make an appointment for 1st mtg							Put Nominee on calendar for first interview				COM Practice
32									Review application				6.3.b	8.3.b
33		Meet with COM (number of meetings varies)							Meet with nominee to evaluate qualifications to pursue a program of preparation				Canons: III.6.3.b	III.8.3.b
34		Wait; touch base with rector		Be available for questions, etc				Review COM's recommendation	Make recommendation to the Bishop regarding postulancy				Canons: III.6.3.b	III.8.3.b
35
36	Bishop's Decision- Postulancy Status							Grant or Deny Admission to Postulancy Status					Canons: III.6.3.d	III.8.3.d
37
38	Postulant						Put a copy in postulant's file	Add a copy of Admission to Postulancy to the Register					Canons: III.6.3.d	III.8.3.d
39		If admitted as a postulant, file the notice with your documents						Provide written notice of canonical status to Postulant					Canons: III.6.3.d	III.8.3.d
40				Receive notice of postulancy status & date of admission				Notify Priest, Standing Committee, COM, & Dean of Seminary Postulant attends/will attend.	Receive notice of Postulancy Status & date of admission	Receive notice of Postulancy Status		Receive notice of Postulancy Status & Date of Admission	Canons: III.6.3.d	III.8.3.d
41		Meet with assigned liaison to COM							Assign a liaison; liaison contacts postulant				COM Practice
42		Confirm program of formation w/Bishop				Approve disbursal of financial support previously committed		Confirm formation program; inform COM	Note postulant's formation program				Canons: III.6.5.a-e / III.8.5.a-f	Diocese: Handbook p. 8
43		Apply for admission to formation program as needed	Provide support for formation		Keep in touch & continue prayer, support							Receive application
44		Enroll & begin attending										Evaluate student's work, etc.	6.5.i	8.5.j	?
45		Write the Bishop on Ember Days - 4x per year (see handbook)						Read (& respond to) Ember letters					Canons: III.6.3.e	III.8.3.e
46		Request that transcript or record of academic formation be sent to Dioc. Office at the end of each year; verify receipt					Receive and file Academic Transcript (x3 - at end of each year)					Discuss formation & academic progress (ex. "Middler Conference") & send year-end transcript/report to Diocesan Office	6.5.i	8.5.j
47		Complete additional training requirements (see handbook)		Present CANDIDACY letter to Vestry									Canons: III.6.5.g / III.8.5.h	Diocese: Handbook p. 8
48		Obtain letter of support from parish, signed by Vestry & Rector		If in support, sign letter		If in support, sign CANDIDACY app. Letter							6.4.a.2		?
49		Submit application for candidacy (include postulancy admission date, letters from congregation, & academic transcripts)					Receive candidacy application, forward to Bishop	Receive candidacy packet; notify COM that Postulant's application is complete	Receive notice that Postulant's candidacy application is complete	Receive candidacy packet			6.4.a	8.4.a
50		Contact Chair of COM & make appt. for interview											COM Practice
51		Meet with COM							Interview postulant; verify that formation canons met				6.5.f-g	8.5.f-h
52		After COM interview, make appt. with Chair of Standing Committee						Review COM's recommendation re: candidacy	send attestation of Postulant's continuing formation to Bp, Dioc. Office, Postulant, & Standing Committee				6.4.b	8.4.b
53		Meet with Standing Committee								Review documents & interview Postulant			6.4.b	8.4.b
54							File letter from Standing Committee	Review Standing Committee's letter	Receive copy of Standing Committee's letter	Send written letter of approval/ denial of candidacy to Bp, COM, Postulant			Standing Committee's practice to send add'l letters
55
56	Bishop's Decision - Candidacy Status							Grant or Deny Candidacy Status					6.4.b	8.4.b
57
58	Candidate	If approved as a Candidate, file copy of written notice						Provide written notice of status to Candidate					6.4.b	8.4.b
59		Touch base with Rector		Receive notice of Candidacy status				Communicate also to Priest, COM, Standing Comm., & Dean	Receive notice of Candidacy status	Receive notice of Candidacy status		Receive notice of Candidacy status	6.4.b	8.4.b
60							Put a copy of admission to candidacy in diocesan register and in candidate's file; notify Registrar / record in Registrar's report	Add copy of Admission to Candidacy notice to Register					6.4.b	8.4.b
61		Complete coursework & exams; continue to write/meet Bishop on Ember weeks (See handbook)					Send payment from Diocese for GOE	Receive seminary evaluation; if applicable/appropriate, nominate candidate for GOE	Receive seminary evaluation; add to file			Evaluate student's academic work & personal performance and provide written report, at least once a year and otherwise as requested, to Bishop and COM	Canons: III.6.5.i	III.8.5.j
62		Meet with Standing Committee (?)					Make candidate's file available to Standing Comm.			Meet with Candidate (optional)			Canons: III.6.5.i	III.8.6.c
63										Review Candidate's file; decide regarding consent/certification			Canons: III.6.6.c
64									Provide certificate with a recommendation regarding ordination as a deacon	Send copy of consent/certification to Candidate			Canons: III.6.6.b	III.8.6.c
65		Fill out ordination application; verify that diocesan office has supporting docs in your file											Canons: III.6.6.b	III.8.6.c
66		Attach letter of support from congregation signed by vestry & priest		Present letter of support for ORDINATION to Vestry		If in support, sign letter for ORDINATION application							6.6.b	8.6.c
67		Submit ordination application to Bishop						Receive & evaluate application and materials submitted, including the appropriateness of academic results (GOE or other)					6.6.d	8.6.c
68
69	Bishop's Decision- Diaconal Ordination							Approve or deny for ordination						8.6.e
70
71		Send short bio and recent photo (headshot) to Communications Director					Post candidate's ordination info on website / in diocesan publications						Diocesan Practice
72		Create and send invitations (Dio office can help if needed)					Send example invitation if needed
73		Other ordination preparations: service, bulletin, service participants, presenters, stole, collar, reception	If hosting ordination, help Candidate plan: service participants, create & print bulletin (Dio office can help if needed), reception	Help Candidate plan; advise on vestments if needed			Email invitation to all diocesan clergy; create ordination certificate; order Bible
74		Send service bulletin to Diocesan Office for Bishop to review (2 weeks before, minimum)					Dio office can help print bulletins if needed						Diocesan Practice
75		Ordination	Attend	Serve as a presenter	Attend	Attend	Bring certificate, Bible, letter of conformity; Attend and take photos	Make a Deacon	Attend	Attend			BCP pp. 536-547
76	Process Complete for Vocational Deacons
77	Deacon	Serve for at least six months as a transitional deacon												8.7.a.1
78		Be at least 24 yrs. old												8.7.a.2
79		Verify dates of most recent medical and psychological evaluations - if more than 3 yrs old, update these exams									Update medical, psychological and background check if more than 3 yrs old			8.7.a.3
80		Fill out priesthood ordination application; verify that diocesan office has supporting docs in your file							Submit to the Bishop a statement attesting to the successful completion of the formation program and proficiency in required areas, and giving a recommendation regarding ordination to the priesthood			Send final transcript and evaluation, with recommendation regarding Deacon's personal qualifications and recommendation regarding ordination to the priesthood		8.7.b
81		Attach letter of support from congregation signed by vestry & priest		Present letter of support for ORDINATION (Priest) to Vestry		If in support, sign letter for ORDINATION application
82								Review and provide ordination application materials to Standing Committee		Consent and certification for ordination to the priesthood				8.7.c
83		Must be appointed to a cure within the Church						Judge appropriateness of cure						8.7.e
84
85	Bishop's Decision- Ordination to Priesthood							Approve or deny for ordination
86
87		Send Ordination details to Communications Director					Post candidate's ordination info on website / in diocesan publications						Diocesan Practice
88		Create and send invitations					Send example invitation if needed
89		Other ordination preparations: service, bulletin, service participants, presenters, stole & chasuble, reception	If hosting ordination, help Deacon plan: service participants, create & print bulletin (Dio office can help if needed), reception	Help Deacon plan			Email invitation to all diocesan clergy; create ordination certificate
90		Send service bulletin to Diocesan Office for Bishop to review (2 weeks before, minimum)					Dio office can help print bulletins if needed						Diocesan Practice
91		Ordination	Attend	Participate in ordination	Attend	Attend	Bring certificate, letter of conformity; Attend and take photos	Ordain to Priesthood	Attend	Attend			BCP pp. 524-535


1	Reference	Topic	Text

2	Canon 1	Of the Ministry of All Baptized Persons
3	1.1.a, b	Responsibility of Diocese.	Each Diocese shall make provision for the affirmation and development of the ministry of all baptized persons, including: (a) Assistance in understanding that all baptized persons are called to minister in Christ's name, to identify their gifts with the help of the Church and to serve Christ's mission at all times and in all places. (b) Assistance in understanding that all baptized persons are called to sustain their ministries through commitment to life-long Christian formation.
4	1.2	Access to discernment process.	No person shall be denied access to the discernment process for any ministry, lay or ordained, in this Church because of race, color, ethnic origin, national origin, sex, marital status, sexual orientation, disabilities or age, except as otherwise provided by these Canons. No right to licensing, ordination, or election is hereby established.
5	1.3	Equal applicability.	The provisions of these Canons for the admission of Candidates for the Ordination to the three Orders: Bishops, Priests and Deacons shall be equally applicable to men and women.
6	Canon 2	Of Commissions on Ministry
7	2.1	Each Diocese to have a Commission.	In each Diocese there shall be a Commission on Ministry ("Commission") consisting of Priests, Deacons, if any, and Lay Persons. The Canons of each Diocese shall provide for the number of members, terms of office, and manner of selection to the Commission.
8	2.2	To assist the Bishop.	The Commission shall advise and assist the Bishop: (a) In the implementation of Title III of these Canons. (b) In the determination of present and future opportunities and needs for the ministry of all baptized persons. (c) In the design and oversight of the ongoing process for recruitment, discernment, formation for ministry, and assessment of readiness therefor.
9	2.3	May adopt rules.	The Commission may adopt rules for its work, subject to the approval of the Bishop; Provided that they are not inconsistent with the Constitution and Canons of this Church and of the Diocese.
10	2.4		The Commission may establish committees consisting of members and other persons to report to the Commission or to act on its behalf.
11	2.5	Education and training.	The Bishop and Commission shall ensure that the members of the Commission and its committees receive ongoing education and training for their work.
12	Canon 3	Of Discernment
13	3.1	Community discernment in the call to ministry	The Bishop and Commission shall provide encouragement, training, and necessary resources to assist each congregation in developing an ongoing process of community discernment appropriate to the cultural background, age, and life experiences of all persons seeking direction in their call to ministry.
14	3.2	Discernment communities	The Bishop, in consultation with the Commission, may utilize college and university campus ministry centers and other communities of faith as additional communities where discernment takes place. In cases where these discernment communities are located in another jurisdiction, the Bishop will consult with the Bishop where the discernment community is located.
15	3.3	Recruiting leadership	The Bishop and Commission shall actively solicit from congregations, schools and other youth organizations, college and university campus ministry centers, seminaries, and other communities of faith names of persons whose demonstrated qualities of Christian commitment and potential for leadership and vision mark them as desirable candidates for positions of leadership in the Church.
16	3.4	Support for discernment process	The Bishop, Commission, and the discernment community shall assist persons engaged in a process of ministry discernment to determine appropriate avenues for the expression and support of their ministries, either lay or ordained.
17	Canon 4	Of Licensed Ministries
18	4.1.a	Selection and license	A confirmed communicant in good standing or, in extraordinary circumstances, subject to guidelines established by the Bishop, a communicant in good standing, may be licensed by the Ecclesiastical Authority to serve as Pastoral Leader, Worship Leader, Preacher, Eucharistic Minister, Eucharistic Visitor, Evangelist, or Catechist. Requirements and guidelines for the selection, training, continuing education, and deployment of such persons, and the duration of licenses shall be established by the Bishop in consultation with the Commission on Ministry.
19	4.1.b	member of the Armed Forces	The Presiding Bishop or the Bishop Suffragan for the Armed Forces may authorize a member of the Armed Forces to exercise one or more of these ministries in the Armed Forces in accordance with the provisions of this Canon. Requirements and guidelines for the selection, training, continuing education, and deployment of such persons shall be established by the Bishop granting the license.
20	4.2	Terms	(a) The Member of the Clergy or other leader exercising oversight of the congregation or other community of faith may request the Ecclesiastical Authority with jurisdiction to license persons within that congregation or other community of faith to exercise such ministries. The license shall be issued for a period of time to be determined under Canon III.4.1(a) and may be renewed. The license may be revoked by the Ecclesiastical Authority upon request of or upon notice to the Member of the Clergy or other leader exercising oversight of the congregation or other community of faith.
21			(b) In renewing the license, the Ecclesiastical Authority shall consider the performance of the ministry by the person licensed, continuing education in the licensed area, and the endorsement of the Member of the Clergy or other leader exercising oversight of the congregation or other community of faith in which the person is serving.
22			(c) A person licensed in any Diocese under the provisions of this Canon may serve in another congregation or other community of faith in the same or another Diocese only at the invitation of the Member of the Clergy or other leader exercising oversight, and with the consent of the Ecclesiastical Authority in whose jurisdiction the service will occur.
23	4.3	Pastoral Leader	A Pastoral Leader is a lay person authorized to exercise pastoral or administrative responsibility in a congregation under special circumstances, as defined by the Bishop.
24	4.4	Worship Leader	A Worship Leader is a lay person who regularly leads public worship under the direction of the Member of the Clergy or other leader exercising oversight of the congregation or other community of faith.
25	4.5	Preacher	A Preacher is a lay person authorized to preach. Persons so authorized shall only preach in congregations under the direction of the Member of the Clergy or other leader exercising oversight of the congregation or other community of faith.
26	4.6	Eucharistic Minister	A Eucharistic Minister is a lay person authorized to administer the Consecrated Elements at a Celebration of Holy Eucharist. A Eucharistic Minister should normally act under the direction of a Deacon, if any, or otherwise, the Member of the Clergy or other leader exercising oversight of the congregation or other community of faith.
27	4.7	Eucharistic Visitor	A Eucharistic Visitor is a lay person authorized to take the Consecrated Elements in a timely manner following a Celebration of Holy Eucharist to members of the congregation who, by reason of illness or infirmity, were unable to be present at the Celebration. A Eucharistic Visitor should normally act under the direction of a Deacon, if any, or otherwise, the Member of the Clergy or other leader exercising oversight of the congregation or other community of faith.
28	4.8	Catechist	A Catechist is a lay person authorized to prepare persons for Baptism, Confirmation, Reception, and the Reaffirmation of Baptismal Vows, and shall function under the direction of the Member of the Clergy or other leader exercising oversight of the congregation or other community of faith.
29	4.9	Evangelist	An Evangelist is a lay person who presents the good news of Jesus Christ in such a way that people are led to receive Christ as Savior and follow Christ as Lord in the fellowship of the Church. An Evangelist assists with the community's ministry of evangelism in partnership with the Presbyter or other leader exercising oversight of the congregation, or as directed by the Bishop.
30	Canon 5	Of General Principles Respecting Ordination
31	5.1	Episcopal Authority	(a) The canonical authority assigned to the Bishop Diocesan by this Title may be exercised by a Bishop Coadjutor, when so empowered under Canon III.19, and at the request of the Bishop Diocesan, by a Bishop Suffragan, or by any other Bishop of a Church in full communion with this Church who was ordained in the historic succession, at the request of the ordinand's Bishop.
32			(b) The Council of Advice of the Convocation of American Churches in Europe, and the board appointed by a Bishop having jurisdiction in an Area Mission in accordance with the provisions of Canon I.11.2(c), shall, for the purpose of this and other Canons of Title III have the same powers as the Standing Committee of a Diocese.
33			(c) In case of a vacancy in the episcopate in a Diocese, the Ecclesiastical Authority may authorize and request the President of the House of Bishops of the Province to take order for an ordination.
34	5.2.a		No Nominee, Postulant, or Candidate for ordination shall sign any of the certificates required by this Title.
35	5.2.b	Testimonials	Testimonials required of the Standing Committee by this Title must be signed by a majority of the whole Committee, at a meeting duly convened, except that testimonials may be executed in counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original.
36	5.2.c	Vestry's letter of support	Whenever the letter of support of a Vestry is required, the letter must be signed and dated by at least two-thirds of all of the members of the Vestry, at a meeting duly convened, and by the Rector or Priest-in-Charge of the Parish, and attested by the Clerk of the Vestry. Should there be no Rector or Priest-in-Charge, the letter shall be signed by a Priest of the Diocese acquainted with the nominee and the Parish, the reason for the substitution being stated in the attesting clause.
37	5.2.d		If the congregation or other discernment community of which the nominee is a member is not a Parish, the letter of support required by Canon III.6 or Canon III.8 shall be signed and dated by the Member of the Clergy and the council of the congregation or other community of faith, and shall be attested by the secretary of the meeting at which the letter was approved. Should there be no Member of the Clergy, the letter shall be signed and dated by a Priest of the Diocese acquainted with the nominee and the congregation or other community of faith, the reason for the substitution being stated in the attesting clause.
38	5.2.e	Member of a Religious Order or Community	If the applicant is a member of a Religious Order or Christian Community recognized by Canon III.24, the letters of support referred to in Canon III.5 or Canon III.6 and any other requirements imposed on a congregation or Member of the Clergy may be given by the Superior or person in charge, and Chapter, or other comparable body of the Order or Community.
39	5.3	Dispensations	An application for any dispensation permitted by this Title from any of the requirements for ordination must first be made to the Bishop, and if approved, referred to the Standing Committee for its advice and consent.
40	Canon 6	Of the Ordination of Deacons
41	6.1	Selection	The Bishop, in consultation with the Commission, shall establish procedures to identify and to select persons with evident gifts and fitness for ordination to the Diaconate.
42	6.2	Nomination	A confirmed adult communicant in good standing, may be nominated for ordination to the diaconate by the person's congregation or other community of faith.
43	6.2.a		The Nomination shall be in writing and shall include a letter of support by the Nominee's congregation or other community of faith committing the community to
44			(1) pledge to contribute financially to that preparation, and
45			(2) involve itself in the Nominee's preparation for ordination to the Diaconate.
46			If it be a congregation, the letter shall be signed by two-thirds of the Vestry or comparable body, and by the Member of the Clergy or leader exercising oversight.
47	6.2.b	Application for admission as Postulant	The Nominee, if in agreement with the nomination, shall accept the nomination in writing and shall provide the following to the Bishop:
48			(1) Full name and date of birth.
49			(2) The length of time resident in the Diocese.
50			(3) Evidence of Baptism and Confirmation.
51			(4) Whether an application has been made previously for Postulancy or the person has been nominated in any Diocese.
52			(5) A description of the process of discernment by which the Nominee has been identified for ordination to the Diaconate.
53			(6) The level of education attained and, if any, the degrees earned, and areas of specialization, together with copies of official transcripts.
54	6.3	Postulancy	Postulancy is the time between nomination and candidacy and may initiate the formal preparation for ordination. Postulancy involves continued exploration of and decision about the Postulant's call to the Diaconate.
55	6.3.a		Before granting admission as a Postulant, the Bishop shall
56			(1) determine that the Nominee is a confirmed adult communicant in good standing, and
57			(2) confer in person with the Nominee,
58	6.3.b	Commission to review the application	If the Bishop approves the Nominee proceeding into Postulancy, the Commission, or a committee of the Commission, shall meet with the Nominee to review the application and prepare an evaluation of the Nominee's qualifications to pursue a program of preparation for ordination to the Diaconate. The Commission shall present its evaluation and recommendations to the Bishop.
59	6.3.c	Previous refusal or cessation	No Bishop shall consider accepting as a Postulant any person who has been refused admission as a Candidate for ordination to the Diaconate in any other Diocese, or who, having been admitted, has afterwards ceased to be a Candidate, until receipt of a letter from the Bishop of the Diocese refusing admission, or in which the person has been a Candidate, declaring the cause of refusal or of cessation.
60	6.3.d	Admission to postulancy	The Bishop may admit the Nominee as a Postulant for ordination to the Diaconate. The Bishop shall record the Postulant's name and date of admission in a Register kept for that purpose. The Bishop shall inform the Postulant, the Member of the Clergy or other leader exercising oversight of the Postulant's congregation or other community of faith, the Commission, the Standing Committee, and the director of the Postulant's program of preparation, of the fact and date of such admission.
61	6.3.e	Ember Weeks	Each Postulant for ordination to the Diaconate shall communicate with the Bishop in person or by letter, four times a year, in the Ember Weeks, reflecting on the Postulant's academic, diaconal, human, spiritual, and practical development.
62	6.3.f	Removal	Any Postulant may be removed as a Postulant at the sole discretion of the Bishop. The Bishop shall give written notice of the removal to the Postulant and the Member of the Clergy or other leader exercising oversight of the Postulant's congregation or other community of faith, the Commission, the Standing Committee, and the director of the program of preparation.
63	6.4	Definition of Candidacy	Candidacy is a time of education and formation, in preparation for ordination to the Diaconate, established by a formal commitment by the Candidate, the Bishop, the Commission, the Standing Committee and the congregation or other community of faith.
64	6.4.a		A person desiring to be considered as a Candidate for ordination to the Diaconate shall apply to the Bishop. Such application shall include the following:
65			(1) the Postulant's date of admission to Postulancy, and
66			(2) a letter of support by the Postulant's congregation or other community of faith. If it be a congregation the letter shall be signed and dated by at least two-thirds of the Vestry or comparable body and by the Member of the Clergy or other leader exercising oversight.
67	6.4.b	Admission to candidacy	Upon compliance with these requirements, and receipt of a written statement from the Commission attesting to the continuing formation of the Postulant, and having received approval in writing of the Standing Committee who shall have interviewed the Postulant and who shall have had an opportunity to review the documentation relating to the application of the Postulant, the Bishop may admit the Postulant as a Candidate for ordination to the Diaconate. The Bishop shall record the Candidate's name and date of admission in a Register kept for that purpose. The Bishop shall inform the Candidate, the Member of the Clergy or other leader exercising oversight of the Candidate's congregation or other community of faith, the Commission, the Standing Committee, and the Dean of the seminary the Candidate may be attending or proposes to attend, or the director of the Candidate's program of preparation, of the fact and date of such admission.
68	6.4.c	Transfers to another Diocese	A Candidate must remain in canonical relationship with the Diocese in which admission has been granted until ordination to the Diaconate under this Canon, except, for reasons acceptable to the Bishop, the Candidate may be transferred to another Diocese upon request, provided that the Bishop of the receiving Diocese is willing to accept the Candidate.
69	6.4.d	Candidate may be removed	Any Candidate may be removed as a Candidate, at the sole discretion of the Bishop. The Bishop shall give written notice of the removal to the Candidate and the Member of the Clergy or other leader exercising oversight of the Candidate's congregation or other community of faith, the Commission, the Standing Committee, and the director of the program of preparation.
70	6.4.e	Candidate may be removed	If a Bishop has removed the Candidate's name from the list of Candidates, except by transfer, or the Candidate's application for ordination has been rejected, no other Bishop may ordain the person without readmission to Candidacy for a period of at least twelve months.
71	6.5.a	Preparation for ordination	The Bishop and the Commission shall work with the Postulant or Candidate to develop and monitor a program of preparation for ordination to the Diaconate in accordance with this Canon to ensure that pastoral guidance is provided throughout the period of preparation.
72	6.5.b	Assignment	The Bishop may assign the Postulant or Candidate to any congregation of the Diocese or other community of faith after consultation with the Member of the Clergy or other leader exercising oversight.
73	6.5.c	Formation	Formation shall take into account the local culture and each Postulant or Candidate's background, age, occupation, and ministry.
74	6.5.d		Prior education and learning from life experience may be considered as part of the formation required for ordination.
75	6.5.e		Wherever possible, formation for the Diaconate shall take place in community, including other persons in preparation for the Diaconate, or others preparing for ministry.
76	6.5.f-g	Areas of competence	Before ordination each Candidate shall be prepared in and demonstrate basic competence in five general areas:
77			(1) Academic studies including, The Holy Scriptures, theology, and the tradition of the Church.
78			(2) Diakonia and the diaconate.
79			(3) Human awareness and understanding.
80			(4) Spiritual development and discipline.
81			(5) Practical training and experience.
82		Training	Preparation for ordination shall include training regarding
83			(1) prevention of sexual misconduct.
84			(2) civil requirements for reporting and pastoral opportunities for responding to evidence of abuse.
85			(3) the Constitution and Canons of the Episcopal Church, particularly Title IV thereof.
86			(4) the Church's teaching on racism.
87	6.5.h	Ember Weeks	Each Candidate for ordination to the Diaconate shall communicate with the Bishop in person or by letter, for times a year, in the Ember Weeks, reflecting on the Candidate's academic, diaconal, human, spiritual, and practical development.
88	6.5.i	Evaluation of progress	During Candidacy each Candidate's progress shall be evaluated from time to time, and there shall be a written report of the evaluation by those authorized by the Commission to be in charge of the evaluation program. Upon certification by those in charge of the Candidate's program of preparation that the Candidate has successfully completed preparation and is ready for ordination, a final written assessment of readiness for ordination to the Diaconate shall be prepared as determined by the Bishop in consultation with the Commission. This report shall include a recommendation from the Commission regarding the readiness of the Candidate for ordination. Records shall be kept of all evaluations, assessments, and the recommendation, and shall be made available to the Standing Committee.
89	6.5.j	Examinations & evaluations	Within thirty-six months prior to ordination as a Deacon, the following must be accomplished
90			(1) a background check, according to criteria established by the Bishop and Standing Committee.
91			(2) medical and psychological evaluation by professionals approved by the Bishop, using forms prepared for the purpose by The Church Pension Fund, and if desired or necessary, psychiatric referral.
92	6.5.k		Reports of all investigations and examinations shall be kept permanently on file by the Bishop and remain a part of the permanent diocesan record.
93	6.6.a	Ordination to the Diaconate	A person may be ordained Deacon:
94			(1) after at least eighteen months from the time of written acceptance of nomination by the Nominee as provided in III.6.2(b), and
95			(2) upon attainment of at least twenty-four years of age.
96	6.6.b	Ordination papers	The Bishop shall obtain in writing and provide to the Standing Committee:
97			(1) an application from the Candidate requesting ordination as a Deacon under this Canon.
98			(2) a letter of support from the Candidate's congregation or other community of faith, signed and dated by at least two-thirds of the Vestry and the Member of the Clergy or other leader exercising oversight.
99			(3) written evidence of admission of the Candidate to Postulancy and Candidacy, giving the dates of admission.
100			(4) a certificate from the seminary or other program of preparation showing the Candidate's scholastic record in the subjects required by the Canons, and giving an evaluation with recommendation as to the Candidate's other personal qualifications for ordination together with a recommendation regarding ordination to the Diaconate
101			under this Canon.
102			(5) a certificate from the Commission giving a recommendation regarding ordination to the Diaconate under this Canon.
103	6.6.c	Standing Committee to consent	On the receipt of such certificates, the Standing Committee, if a majority of all members consent, shall certify that the Canonical requirements for ordination to the Diaconate under this Canon have been met, that there is no sufficient objection on medical, psychological, moral, or spiritual grounds and that they recommend ordination. The Standing Committee shall evidence such certification, by a testimonial, addressed to the Bishop in the form specified below and signed by the consenting members of the Standing Committee.
104	6.6.c	Standing Committee to consent	To the Right Reverend __________, Bishop of __________ We, the Standing Committee of __________, having been duly convened at __________ at __________, do testify that A.B., desiring to be ordained to the Diaconate under Canon III.6 has presented to us the certificates as required by the Canons indicating A.B.'s preparedness for ordination to the Diaconate under Canon III.6; and we certify that all canonical requirements for ordination to the Diaconate under Canon III.6 have been met; and we find no sufficient objection to ordination. Therefore, we recommend A.B. for ordination. In witness whereof, we have hereunto set our hands this _____ day of _____, in the year of our Lord _____. (Signed) ____________
105	6.6.d	Declaration of conformity	The testimonial having been presented to the Bishop, and there being no sufficient objection on medical, psychological, moral, or spiritual grounds, the Bishop may ordain the Candidate to the Diaconate under this Canon; and at the time of ordination the Candidate shall subscribe publicly and make, in the presence of the Bishop, the declaration required in Article VIII of the Constitution.
106	Canon 7	Of the Life and Work of Deacons
107	7.1		Deacons serve directly under the authority of and are accountable to the Bishop, or in the absence of the Bishop, the Ecclesiastical Authority of the Diocese.
108	7.2-10		See canons
109	Canon 8	Of the Ordination of Priests
110	8.1	Selection	The Bishop, in consultation with the Commission, shall establish procedures to identify and select persons with evident gifts and fitness for ordination to the Priesthood.
111	8.2	Nomination	A confirmed adult communicant in good standing may be nominated for ordination to the Priesthood by the person's congregation or other community of faith.
112	8.2.a	Application for admission to Postulancy	The Nomination shall be in writing and shall include a letter of support by the Nominee's congregation or other community of faith committing the community to: (1) pledge to contribute financially to that preparation, and (2) involve itself in the Nominee's preparation for ordination to the Priesthood. If it be a congregation, the letter shall be signed by two-thirds of the Vestry or comparable body, and by the Member of the Clergy or leader exercising oversight.
113	8.2.b		The Nominee, if agreeing, shall accept the nomination in writing, and shall provide the following to the Bishop: (1) Full name and date of birth. (2) The length of time resident in the Diocese. (3) Evidence of Baptism and Confirmation. (4) Whether an application has been made previously for Postulancy or the person has been nominated in any Diocese. (5) A description of the process of discernment by which the Nominee has been identified for ordination to the Priesthood. (6) The level of education attained and, if any, the degrees earned and areas of specialization, together with copies of official transcripts.
114	8.3	Postulancy	Postulancy is the time between nomination and candidacy and may initiate the formal preparation for ordination. Postulancy involves continued exploration of and decision about the Postulant's call to the Priesthood.
115	8.3.a		Before granting admission as a Postulant, the Bishop shall
116			(1) determine that the person is a confirmed adult communicant in good standing.
117			(2) confer in person with the Nominee.
118			(3) shall consult with the Nominee regarding financial resources which will be available for the support of the Postulant throughout preparation for ordination. During Postulancy and later Candidacy, the Bishop or someone appointed by the Bishop shall review periodically the financial condition and plans of the Postulant.
119	8.3.b	Commission to review the application	If the Bishop approves proceeding, the Commission, or a committee of the Commission, shall meet with the Nominee to review the application and prepare an evaluation of the Nominee's qualifications to pursue a program of preparation for ordination to the Priesthood. The Commission shall present its evaluation and recommendations to the Bishop.
120	8.3.c	Previous removal or cessation	No Bishop shall consider accepting as a Postulant any person who has been refused admission as a Candidate for ordination to the Priesthood in any other Diocese, or who, having been admitted, has afterwards ceased to be a Candidate, until receipt of a letter from the Bishop of the Diocese refusing admission, or in which the person has been a Candidate, declaring the cause of refusal or of cessation.
121	8.3.d	Admission to postulancy	The Bishop may admit the Nominee as a Postulant for ordination to the Priesthood. The Bishop shall record the Postulant's name and date of admission in a Register kept for that purpose. The Bishop shall inform the Postulant, the Member of the Clergy or other leader exercising oversight of the Postulant's congregation or other community of faith, the Commission, the Standing Committee, and the Dean of the seminary the Postulant may be attending or proposes to attend, or the director of Postulant's program of preparation, of the fact and date of such admission.
122	8.3.e	Ember Weeks	Each Postulant for ordination to the Priesthood shall communicate with the Bishop in person or by letter, four times a year, in the Ember Weeks, reflecting on the Postulant's academic experience and personal and spiritual development.
123	8.3.f	Removal	Any Postulant may be removed as a Postulant at the sole discretion of the Bishop. The Bishop shall give written notice of the removal to the Postulant and the Member of the Clergy or other leader exercising oversight of the Postulant's congregation or other community of faith, the Commission, the Standing Committee, and the director of the program of preparation.
124	8.4	Definition of Candidacy	Candidacy is a time of education and formation in preparation for ordination to the Priesthood, established by a formal commitment by the Candidate, the Bishop, the Commission, the Standing Committee, and the congregation or other community of faith.
125	8.4.a	Application for Candidacy	A person desiring to be considered as a Candidate for ordination to the Priesthood shall apply to the Bishop. Such application shall include the following: (1) the Postulant's date of admission to Postulancy, and (2) a letter of support by the Postulant's congregation or other community of faith. If it be a congregation, the letter shall be signed and dated by at least two-thirds of the Vestry or comparable body and by the Member of the Clergy or other leader exercising oversight.
126	8.4.b	Admission to candidacy	Upon compliance with these requirements, and receipt of a statement from the Commission attesting to the continuing formation of the Postulant, and having received approval in writing of the Standing Committee who shall have interviewed the Postulant and who shall have had an opportunity to review the documentation relating to the application of the Postulant, the Bishop may admit the Postulant as a Candidate for ordination to the Priesthood. The bishop shall record the Candidate's name and date of admission in a Register kept for that purpose. The Bishop shall inform the Candidate, the Member of the Clergy or leader exercising oversight of the Candidate's congregation or other community of faith, the Commission, the Standing Committee, and the Dean of the seminary the Candidate may be attending or proposes to attend, or the director of the Candidate's program of preparation, of the fact and date of such admission.
127	8.4.c	Transfer to another Diocese	A Candidate must remain in canonical relationship with the Diocese in which admission has been granted until ordination to the Diaconate under this Canon, except, for reasons acceptable to the Bishop, the Candidate may be transferred to another Diocese upon request, provided that the Bishop of the receiving Diocese is willing to accept the Candidate.
128	8.4.d	Candidate may be removed	Any Candidate may be removed as a Candidate at the sole discretion of the Bishop. The Bishop shall give written notice of the removal to the Candidate and the Member of the Clergy or other leader exercising oversight of the Candidate's congregation or other community of faith, the Commission, the Standing Committee, and the Dean of the seminary the Candidate may be attending or the director of the program of preparation.
129	8.4.e		If a Bishop has removed the Candidate's name from the list of Candidates, except by transfer, or the Candidate's application for ordination has been rejected, no other Bishop may ordain the person without readmission to Candidacy for a period of at least twelve months.
130	8.5.a	Preparation for ordination	The Bishop and the Commission shall work with the Postulant or Candidate to develop and monitor a program of preparation for ordination to the Priesthood and to ensure that pastoral guidance is provided throughout the period of preparation.
131	8.5.b	Pre-theological education	If the Postulant or Candidate has not previously obtained a baccalaureate degree, the Commission, Bishop, and Postulant or Candidate shall design a program of such additional academic work as may be necessary to prepare the Postulant or Candidate to undertake a program of theological education.
132	8.5.c	Formation	Formation shall take into account the local culture and each Postulant or Candidate's background, age, occupation, and ministry.
133	8.5.d		Prior education and learning from life experience may be considered as part of the formation required for the Priesthood.
134	8.5.e		Whenever possible, formation for the Priesthood shall take place in community, including other persons in preparation for the Priesthood, or others preparing for ministry.
135	8.5.f-h		Formation shall include theological training, practical experience, emotional development, and spiritual formation.
136		Theological Education	Subject areas for study during this program of preparation shall include: (1) The Holy Scriptures. (2) Church History, including the Ecumenical Movement. (3) Christian Theology, including Missionary Theology and Missiology. (4) Christian Ethics and Moral Theology. (5) Studies in contemporary society, including the historical and contemporary experience of racial and minority groups, and cross-cultural ministry skills. Cross-cultural ministry skills may include the ability to communicate in a contemporary language other than one's first language. (6) Liturgics and Church Music; Christian Worship and Music according to the contents and use of the Book of Common Prayer and the Hymnal, and authorized supplemental texts. (7) Theory and practice of ministry, including leadership, and the ministries of evangelism and stewardship.
137		Training	Preparation for ordination shall include training regarding (1) prevention of sexual misconduct. (2) civil requirements for reporting and pastoral opportunities for responding to evidence of abuse. (3) the Constitution and Canons of the Episcopal Church, particularly Title IV thereof. (4) the Church's teaching on racism.
138	8.5.i	Ember Weeks	Each Postulant or Candidate for ordination to the Priesthood shall communicate with the Bishop in person or by letter, four times a year, in the Ember Weeks, reflecting on the Candidate's academic experience and personal and spiritual development.
139	8.5.j	Evaluation of progress	The seminary or other formation program shall provide for, monitor, and report on the academic performance and personal qualifications of the Postulant or Candidate for ordination. These reports will be made upon request of the Bishop and Commission, but at least once per year.
140	8.5.k	Examinations & evaluations	Within thirty-six months prior to ordination as a Deacon under this Canon, the following must be accomplished (1) a background check, according to criteria established by the Bishop and Standing Committee. (2) medical and psychological evaluation by professionals approved by the Bishop, using forms prepared for the purpose by The Church Pension Fund, and if desired or necessary, psychiatric referral.
141	8.5.l		Reports of all investigations and examinations shall be kept permanently on file by the Bishop and remain a part of the permanent diocesan record.
142	8.6.a	Ordination of Deacons with a call to the Priesthood	A Candidate must first be ordained Deacon before being ordained Priest.
143	8.6.b		To be ordained Deacon under this Canon, a person must be at least twenty-four years of age.
144	8.6.c	Ordination papers	The Bishop shall obtain in writing and provide to the Standing Committee: (1) an application from the Candidate requesting ordination as a Deacon under this Canon. (2) a letter of support from the Candidate's congregation or other community of faith, signed and dated by at least two-thirds of the Vestry and the Member of the Clergy or other leader exercising oversight. (3) written evidence of admission of the Candidate to Postulancy and Candidacy, giving the date of admission. (4) a certificate from the seminary or other program of preparation showing the Candidate's scholastic record in the subjects required by the Canons, and giving an evaluation with recommendation as to the Candidate's other personal qualifications for ordination together with a recommendation regarding ordination to the Diaconate under this Canon. (5) a certificate from the Commission giving a recommendation regarding ordination to the Diaconate under this Canon.
145	8.6.d	Standing Committee to consent	On the receipt of such certificates, the Standing Committee, a majority of all the members consenting, shall certify that the canonical requirements for ordination to the Diaconate under this Canon have been met and there is no sufficient objection on medical, psychological, moral, or spiritual grounds and that they recommend ordination, by a testimonial addressed to the Bishop in the form specified below and signed by the consenting members of the Standing Committee. To the Right Reverend ______, Bishop of ___________ We, the Standing Committee of __________, having been duly convened at _________ at __________, do testify that A.B., desiring to be ordained to the Diaconate and Priesthood under Canon III.8 has presented to us the certificates as required by the Canons indicating A.B.'s preparedness for ordination to the Diaconate under Canon III.8; and we certify that all canonical requirements for ordination to the Diaconate under Canon III.8 have been met; and we find no sufficient objection to ordination. Therefore, we recommend A.B. for ordination. In witness whereof, we have hereunto set our hands this _____ day of _____, in the year of our Lord _______. (Signed) ______________________
146	8.6.e	Declaration of conformity	The testimonial having been presented to the Bishop, and there being no sufficient objection on medical, psychological, moral, or spiritual grounds, the Bishop may ordain the Candidate to the Diaconate under this Canon; and at the time of ordination the Candidate shall subscribe publicly and make, in the presence of the Bishop, the declaration required in Article VIII of the Constitution.


1	for the person discerning		Priest	Parish Discernment Group (PDG)	Vestry	Diocesan Office	Bishop	Commission on Ministry	Standing Committee	Seminary?

2	Ordination Handbook		Rector Checklist		Vestry Checklist	Office Checklist
3	Ordination Handbook		PDG/Clergy Handbook		Vestry Checklist	(so you can maintain a duplicate file for your own records)
4	Application / Postulancy Packet	Self-Disclosure Statement	(in process of revision - address any questions to the Commission on Ministry Chair)		Who Does What - Sponsoring Congregation
5			Letter to go with Congregation's Nomination	PDG's report	Congregational Nomination for Postulancy		Admission to Postulancy Status	Evaluation and recommendation
6	Life History Questionnaire (CPG)	Behavioral Screening (CPG)
7	Authorization & Release (CPG)				Menu of Support options
8	Mental Health Evaluation Forms (from CPG)	Medical Exam Form (from CPG)
9	Seminary/ Formation Program application	Don't apply before meeting with the bishop								Evaluation form (available if needed - most have their own format)
10	Candidacy Application (letter)				Congregational Letter of Support: Candidacy		Admission to Candidacy status	Attestation of continuing formation	Candidacy Approval (optional template - there is no specific format required)
11
12	Ordination Application: Deacon				Congregational Letter of Support: Ordination - Deacon			Recommendation	Consent and Certification for Ordination: VOCATIONAL Deacon
13									Consent and Certification for Ordination: TRANSITIONAL Deacon
14
15	Ordination Application: Priest (if applicable)				Congregational Letter of Support: Ordination - Priest (if applicable)			Attestation and Recommendation	Consent and Certification for Ordination: Priest (if applicable)