Admissions
&
Application Process
Answering a call to ordained ministry may seem daunting, but we are here to guide you every step of the way. The admissions process for the School for Deacons is integrated with the Episcopal Church’s ordination process in our diocese.
1
You begin by speaking with your parish priest and faith community about your sense of call.
2
With the support of your priest and community, you would attend the diocesan Day of Discernment and eventually enter the formal discernment and postulancy process. Don’t worry – we will help explain these terms and steps as you go. Essentially, becoming a postulant means the Bishop and Commission on Ministry affirm your call and invite you to pursue formation as a deacon.
3
Once you have diocesan approval to proceed, you will be invited to apply to the School for Deacons. Our application will ask about your spiritual journey, ministry experiences, and motivation to become a deacon. You will also need a nomination or endorsement from your congregation’s leadership, because being a deacon is a partnership between the individual, the parish, and the wider Church. Throughout the admissions process, our team is available to answer questions and assist with paperwork or interviews. We want to make the process as clear and encouraging as possible.
4
After reviewing your application, the School for Deacons (in coordination with diocesan leadership) will make a final decision on admission. Upon acceptance, you officially become part of our community of deacon students!
Remember, the journey to ordination is meant to be collegial and supportive, not a solo endeavor. You will have mentors (often experienced deacons or priests) who walk with you through formation. And even in the admissions stage, we encourage you to reach out with any concerns. Feeling unsure is normal – we are here to help you discern if this path is right for you. If you believe God might be calling you to the diaconate, we invite you to take the next step: contact us for an initial conversation or begin an application. We are excited to hear your story and help you explore this calling.
Key Qualities
A deep faith in Jesus Christ.
A heart for service, emotional maturity, and a willingness to learn.
Academic degrees are not strictly required – we have students from all educational backgrounds – but you should be ready for serious study and reflection.
Get in Touch
Have questions? Drop us a line and we’ll be in touch soon