Clergy Vocation

The Anglican Catholic Diocese of New Orleans believes that ordained ministry begins with God's call. Throughout Scripture, God calls men to serve His people, and the Church prayerfully discerns those whom He has chosen for ordained ministry. A calling to Holy Orders is both deeply personal and firmly rooted in the apostolic ministry entrusted to the Church through the Apostolic Succession.

While every baptized Christian is called to serve Christ in ministry, some are called to ordained leadership within the Church. The Diocese carefully guides and supports those discerning this vocation through prayer, education, mentorship, and spiritual formation.

For men discerning a vocation to ordained ministry, the traditional Minor Orders provide an opportunity for formation, service, and discernment. These include:

• Acolyte (Permanent)
• Reader/Cantor
• Subdeacon

Admission to the Minor Orders involves a period of discernment and preparation that typically includes theological study, practical ministry training, mentorship, background screening, recommendations from the parish Rector and Vestry, and the approval of the Bishop Ordinary.

Those called to the Major Orders of Deacon, Priest, and Bishop undertake a more extensive process of formation. Candidates are expected to demonstrate spiritual maturity, a faithful Christian life, and a genuine vocation to ordained ministry.

Preparation normally includes:

• Formal theological education through an approved seminary or diocesan program
• Ongoing spiritual direction and mentoring
• Practical parish ministry experience
• Comprehensive background screening
• Medical and psychological evaluations
• Recommendations from parish leadership
• Approval by the Bishop Ordinary and the appropriate diocesan authorities

The goal of this process is not merely academic preparation but the formation of faithful shepherds who will preach the Gospel, administer the Sacraments, and care for Christ's flock.

 Each man is different in his calling and abilities.  We encourage you to reach out to have a discussion to help you discern if you have a vocation in the Church.  Everyone has a place in the sharing of the Gospel of Jesus Christ.  Let us help you discover where you fit and help you get started. 

 The Diocese also welcomes inquiries from clergy serving in other Christian traditions who believe God may be calling them to ministry within the Anglican Catholic Church. Each application is considered individually with prayer and pastoral care.

Depending on the candidate's previous ordination, theological education, and ministerial experience, the process may lead to incardination, conditional ordination, or ordination in accordance with the Canons of the Anglican Catholic Church and the direction of the Bishop Ordinary.