The Priesthood

(Individual Formation)

Postulancy to Candidacy

A Postulant is a person who has been recommended by the Commission on Ministry (COM) and accepted by the Bishop to begin the formal process which could lead to ordination.  Postulancy involves further exploration of the call to priesthood.  From this point on, the person aspiring to Holy Orders may be removed from the process at the sole discretion of the Bishop.

The following canonical requirements will be fulfilled during the phase of Postulancy.  

1.    The canons of the church require that Ember letters (PDF)be written to the Bishop.  He will be the only one who reads the letter.  Ember Days are traditionally observed on Wednesdays, Fridays and Saturdays after the 1st Sunday in Lent, the Day of Pentecost, Holy Cross Day (Sept. 14th) and December 13th.  These letters should let the Bishop know what you are doing, how you are doing, and what studies you have undertaken..  They may also be a way to discuss any particular issues you have in mind.  The letters may be sent electronically.  Copies should be sent to the Rev. Dr. John Schaefer who will not read them but place a copy in your file.  The Bishop also recommends that you read the article (PDF) by the Rev. James Fenhagen.

2.    The Commission on Ministry would also like to hear from you twice a year (November-December and April-May).  You may send that letter to the chair, the Rev. George Benson, St. David’s Episcopal Church, 8800 Holdrege St., Lincoln, NE 68505.  Please send a copy to the Rev. John Schaefer  for your file.

3.    Educational/spiritual formation program.  This form indicates how you plan to get the education you need and what your rule of life will be.  A rule of life describes a regular prayer and worship pattern, study and outreach.  You may want to download the Word Instructions form to help you complete it.

4.    You will continue your spiritual and educational programs which were worked out with the bishop.  These will include completing academic studies, participating in liturgical and outreach ministries and continuing to develop a spiritual program.  It is recommended that you seek a spiritual director. The supervising priest (usually your rector) will report to the Bishop and the COM regarding progress in your spiritual program.  

5.    The theological school will send the bishop an evaluation and recommendation as to your personal qualifications for the exercise of Holy Orders after three semesters of study or the equivalent.  For those doing independent study, your academic advisor will be asked to send a similar report  (PDF).

6.    Review of finances.  In the spring of each year, you will send the Review of Finances form (PDF) to the Rev. Dr. John Schaefer at the diocesan office.  It indicates the amount of debt you are incurring.  The Bishop will review the form.  

7.    You will need to update your Spiritual Autobiography and Social History. This update should include copies of any pertinent certificates, etc.  These should be submitted to the diocesan office with a copy to the COM.  These updates should be done no more than six months before each interview by the COM.

8.    You will complete an Application for Candidacy  (PDF).  It should be sent it to the President of the Standing Committee.  Also send a copy to the Rev. Dr. John Schaefer at the diocesan office.

9.    The priest and vestry will complete and sign the Priest/Vestry Endorsement for Candidacy. (PDF)  The form needs to be signed by 2/3 of the members of the vestry and by the rector or priest-in-charge.  It is sent to the Rev. Dr. John Schaefer at the diocesan office.

10.    At this point, you schedule a meeting with the Bishop.  You will need at least a month’s (two months in the summer) lead time to make your appointment.  The Diocesan Administrator can assist you in setting up the appointment.  The number is 341-5373 or toll free 1-866-341-5373.

11.    The Bishop will recommend that you meet the COM.  The COM will schedule a Candidacy Interview.  

12.    The COM will make a recommendation to the Bishop.

13.    If the COM recommendation is favorable and the Bishop agrees, you will meet with the Standing Committee at their next scheduled meeting.  They will make their recommendations to the Bishop.

14.    The Bishop will inform you by letter as to whether or you have been approved for Candidacy.

For the requirements for ordination to the diaconate, please see the document titled “Candidacy to the Diaconate”.
For the requirements for ordination to the priesthood, please see the document title “Diaconate to Priesthood.”