On this page we have sought to set out some helpful advice for those in the discernment process. Whether you have only just begun to consider ordination or you are a few weeks away from your assessment panel, we hope there there will be something useful here for you.
First Steps
What does the discernment process look like? For many it will start with a conversation, often with a parish incumbent, a school or university chaplain, a trusted friend, etc. From that point, you will likely go on to speak to a member of the your diocese’s discernment team, e.g. a Diocesan Director of Ordinands (DDO) or a Vocations Advisor. For some the process can be quite quick. For others, however, this might take more time. The following links may offer some advice and encouragement.
The Church of England’s Shared Discernment Process
https://www.churchofengland.org/life-events/vocations/preparing-ordained-ministry/understanding-discernment
This website sets out the typical shape of the discernment process. It also is a handy way to find the Church’s “Qualities” (expected characteristics) of Ordained Priests and (Distinctive) Deacons.
A Short Guide to Surviving ‘The Discernment Process’ in the Church of England.
https://www.pickingapplesofgold.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/Discernment-Guide-Update-July-2020-PDF.pdf
Written in 2015 by the Rev’d Jules Middleton and revised in 2020, this is a helpful overview of the discernment process. Moreover, it includes a number of links and recommended resources, not least what to do when things do not necessarily work out the way you had hoped. It is worth noting that some things here are slightly out of date, but that it nonetheless remains a useful guide and reference.
Discerning the (Distinctive) Diaconate?
https://www.churchofengland.org/sites/default/files/2017-12/discerning-the-diaconate.pdf
If you feel you are being called to ordained ministry, it could be that you are being called to be a Distinctive Deacon. This PDF from the Church of England provides a helpful starting point for those considering this distinctive form of ordained ministry.
Have you considered a Ministry Experience Scheme (MES)?
Many dioceses now run schemes for those considering ordained ministry to gain experience typically by working in a parish or benefice. As a starting point, the Church of England website gives an overview of what a year in an MES can offer.
https://www.churchofengland.org/faith-life/vocations/ministry-experience-scheme
A number of dioceses, deaneries and parishes also offer their own schemes. It is worth speaking to your local clergy for their advice. A year working for a church can be a wonderful way to test and grow in your vocation.
Choosing a College and Training “Pathway”
We maintain an active list of the current Colleges of the Church of England (and her sister Episcopal Churches in the British Isles. We are currently looking to expand the information we provide here. Stay tuned.
Ordinands 