Vocations

 

1. Initial Enquiry

The individual contacts the church or vocations advisor, sharing a sense of call.

  • Informal conversation
  • Sharing of faith journey and sense of vocation

 

2. Prayerful Discernment

A period of intentional prayer and reflection.

  • Personal prayer and/or Daily Office
  • Reflection on gifts, calling, and desire to serve

 

3. Vocations Conversation

Meeting with a vocations advisor or clergy mentor.

  • Exploration of calling (ordained or lay)
  • Introduction to different paths of ministry

 

4. Discernment Pathway Identified

Together, a provisional pathway is discerned:

  • Transitional Diaconate → Priesthood (for those called to priestly ministry)
  • Permanent Diaconate (lifelong diaconal ministry of service)
  • Order of Deaconess (a distinct, recognised ministry of service, pastoral care, and leadership where appropriate)
  • Lay Ministry (A pathway for those not called to Ordained Ministry)

 

5. Discernment Period (3 months)

The individual lives into their call within the community.

  • Active participation in worship and ministry
  • Engagement in pastoral or liturgical roles
  • Regular meetings with a mentor or spiritual director

 

6. Formal Application

If the sense of call endures:

  • Complete Application form
  • Written statement of vocation
  • Safeguarding and background checks
  • References 

 

7. Discernment Interview / Panel

The Candidate meets with the Primus.

  • Exploration of faith, theology, and readiness
  • Consideration of the appropriate order of ministry

 

8. Decision and Admission to Formation

Church leadership prayerfully decides:

  • Acceptance into formation for a specific order
  • Or recommendation for further discernment

 

9. Formation and Training

Preparation according to the chosen path:

  • Transitional Diaconate Candidates
    Formation oriented toward priesthood, including sacramental theology and liturgy
  • Permanent Deacons
    Formation focused on service, preaching, pastoral care, and outreach
  • Deaconesses
    Formation shaped for pastoral, liturgical, and community ministry

 

10. Ordination / Setting Apart

  • Transitional Diaconate - The candidate is ordained as a Deacon as the first stage toward priesthood
  • Permanent Diaconate - The candidate is ordained as a Deacon for lifelong ministry
  • Order of Deaconess - The candidate is set apart / ordained (according to church practice) for diaconal service
  • Lay Ministry - The Candidate is commissioned as a Lay Minister

 

11. Ongoing Formation and Ministry

All ordained ministers continue to grow in vocation:

  • Continuing formation
  • Spiritual direction
  • Active service in the life of the church

 

If you wish to consider discerning a vocation please reach out to us via email:

 

churchofthesacredisle@gmail.com