Deacon or Priest in OCCA?

 

We in OCCA are reminded daily that ordained ministry is about placing our entire humanity and its frailty at the service of the Master's House. We all carry our treasure in very earthen vessels. So it is with respect that we welcome men and women into a discerning process -- often the best pastors are themselves wounded, fellow earthen vessels that know well the human condition.

The Synod of Bishops desires to look at each candidate for Holy Orders, making prudent decisions about how much formation is necessary. We do not take your seeking lightly any more than we take the gift of Holy Orders lightly. You can expect that we will pray together and for one another in the discernment and formation period, no matter how long or short it may be. We are in this together as members of Christ's Body, the Church.

Essential Requirements:

PERSONAL

• Prayerful, maturing faith life in Jesus Christ.
• Joyful embracing of the life of the Church and the Western Orthodox tradition.
• Desire to serve in ordained ministry.
• Love of sacramental life.
• Awareness of the Church as a servant of reconciliation and healing.
• Stable, maturing emotional life.

FORMATIONAL

• Willingness to be formed in the ancient theological traditions.
• Proof of any previous theological and pastoral training as well as secular studies.
• Hearty honesty in a mentoring process.
• Time for study and reflection.
• Ability to understand basic theological materials and put them into pastoral practice.

SOCIAL

• Capability to relate to people of many different backgrounds and lifestyles.
• Consent of spouse/partner.
• Proven financial stability and job security.
• Two non-family references.
• Responsible citizenship and no legal problems.

IF ALREADY ORDAINED/CERTIFIED CLERGY:

In addition to the above....

• If possible, Letter of Transfer from present ecclesiastical authority.
• Certificate/Diplomas of formation and training.
• Ordination Certificate
• Two references from people to whom you have ministered.
• Willingness to discern how to effectively pastor in this tradition.

Some of our clergy have advanced theological degrees as well as advanced degrees in their chosen professions. Others are academically at a minimum but pastorally maxed out -- they have doctoral degrees in living! Our clergy must be self-sustaining in the tentmaker style of Apostle Paul.

If you are interested in more information, please contact one of the bishops listed in the OCCA web site here.

Blessings,
The Synod of Bishops