Through our baptism we are all called to ministry, serving Christ, the Church, and those around us in the world. Some of us, however, feel a particular call to ordained ministry in and through the church. The EACA maintains the traditional three branches of ordained ministry: Deacons, Priests, and Bishops.
Persons who may be interested in the possibility of formation and ordination in the EACA can initiate the conversation with an EACA clergy person they may know, that is in their area (see Clergy Listing), or by contacting Bishop Kevin Champion as listed below. Applicants must be persons of good character, have a genuine desire to serve in and the through the church, and must have completed or be willing to complete basic coursework in Biblical Studies, Church History, Anglicanism, Theology, Ethics/Justice Studies, Liturgy and Worship, Homiletics, and Pastoral Care.
The Formation process is individualized based upon what the candidate brings to the process and therefore the length of time required prior to ordination will vary from one person to another. The process for consideration as a Postulant and potential candidate for ordination includes:
- Initial conversations with an EACA clergy or Bishop.
- Submission of a completed application form, copies of transcripts from all college/seminary/graduate school work completed, and three required reflection papers (Biographical, Theological, and Ministry) to Bishop Kevin.
- Upon receipt of the complete application packet, all materials are evaluated with further dialogue regarding the applicants calling and intentions for ordained ministry.
- If approved the application receives notification of acceptance as a Postulate for Formation with recommendations regarding further study or personal work that may be needed.
- The new Postulant is matched with an EACA clergy person who will serve as a personal mentor during the Formation process.
- The Candidate communicates regularly with his/her mentor and Bishop Kevin, completing all required coursework needed.
At the completion of the Formation Process, if the candidate is found to be successful in his/her work and presentation of him/herself, with the recommendation of the House of Bishops, the candidate may be ordained Deacon (Permanent or Transitional). Following a period of time of service the Transitional Deacon may be ordained Priest.
If you have further questions or wish to discuss the possibility of Formation and Ordination, please contact Bishop Kevin Champion:
923 Lake Dr.
Shelby, NC 28152
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