Discerning a Call to Ministry
The Episcopal Church understands discernment of ministry in the context of Baptism and the life of a local worshiping community. Discernment of ministry is a function of the Body of Christ and is expected to be addressed mutually with members of the local church. Every baptized person has a call to ministry given in baptism. The discernment of particular ministries requires both the internal sense of call on the part of an individual and the external affirmation of that call by the Body.
While we often think of the discernment of ministries in relation to ordained persons, the discernment of ministry is intended for all Christians. Therefore, the diocese offers guidance for the discernment of lay ministries, as well as for deacons and priests. The Commission on Ministry (COM) has responsibility for the oversight of all discernment and formation for ministry in the diocese. Regardless of your sense of call, this is the starting point for you.
Discernment usually begins with a conversation with the priest responsible for the worshiping community. Questions and wonderings may lead to more substantial conversations that then proceed to conversations with the bishop and a formal discernment process. The diocese will sponsor occasional discernment days to encourage and facilitate these conversations.
The following Discernment Handbook explains the process with the associated forms following:
Explorer’s Info Form A1
Explorer’s Reflection on Parish Discernment A2
Parish Discernment Team Report A3
Vestry Nomination for Postulancy A4
Acceptance of Nomination and Application for Postulancy A5
Financial Disclosure A6
Aspirant Health Questionnaire A7
Authorization to Release A8
Life History Questionnaire A9
Behavior Screening Questionnaire A10
Required Medical Exam A11
Required Mental Exam A12
Vestry Endorsement for Candidacy P1
Acceptance of Support and Application for Candidacy P2
Vestry Letter of Support for Ordination to Diaconate C1
Application for Ordination to the Diaconate C2
Vestry Letter of Support for Ordination to Priesthood O1
Application for Ordination to the Priesthood O2