We stand in a stream of Christian thought that insists that discernment for ordination is the work of the church, and that it is a communal affair, not a solitary or small group task. It can be helpful to imagine the process of discernment as an expanding spiral:
• It begins with the individual. The spiral expands by meeting with one’s rector or vicar, and if warranted, entering into a several month journey of prayerful exploration of possible call with that person.
• When warranted, the spiral expands by involving rigorous and intensive discernment with a Congregational Discernment Committee trained by the Commission on Ministry. It also includes work with a spiritual director. To request training
• If the Vestry/Bishop’s Committee and the sponsoring clergy feel that discernment by the wider church is warranted, they may nominate the aspirant for ordination. Forms necessary for nomination: For the priesthood For the diaconate
• Discernment then moves to the diocesan level to involve participation in an annual BACOM (Bishop’s Advisory Committee on Ordained Ministry) Conference. At this conference the Bishop makes decisions regarding postulancy for ordination to the diaconate or to the priesthood.
Requirements to attend BACOM:
For the priesthood For the diaconate
Admission to postulancy represents the church’s conclusion that an individual is called to ordained ministry and confirms the church’s commitment of support in response to that call.
Formation of Postulants and Candidates:
For the priesthood For the diaconate
