Do you feel called to the ministry? Figuring out if this is the right step for you is best done ‘in community,’ or by speaking with those who know your gifts and talents. These people include clergy from a local or home congregation, chaplains at schools, members of the Bishop’s staff or trusted friends.
Q: What is vocation?
A: Vocation comes from the root “vocare,” which means “to call.” It refers to our calling or our work. At its best, it applies to all of us. We all, as lay people or as ordained people, have a vocation, a calling. However, we have come to associate vocation with the ordained ministry of the church, most commonly with the priesthood.
Q: How does one become an ordained priest or deacon?
A: In the Episcopal Church, there are specific requirements to be met in order to be ordained. These are found in the Constitution and Canons of the Episcopal Church, Title III. While the Church seeks out those who meet the canonical requirements and who present themselves with a call, it is the responsibility of the Church to confirm such a call . In most dioceses, there are discernment programs to assist both the aspirant and the church in reaching agreement about those called to the priesthood.
Q: What are the accredited Episcopal seminaries and where are they located?