THE LOCAL PROCESS
When an individual begins the Local Process of their Path of Discernment to Holy Orders, he or she is known as an Aspirant. The Local Process is perhaps the most significant. It is the first step in exploring God’s calling and determining not only whether to move forward, but also why.
The Local Process involves a series of profoundly in-depth conversations with the people in an Aspirant’s life and local church. During the Local Process, Aspirants will have honest conversations with their spouse about their call and work through what is best for their family. The Aspirant will have multiple conversations with a Rector and a group of people from their church to discern their call and explore exactly what shape that might take. Meanwhile, Aspirants will do the deep work of preparing a Spiritual Autobiography that expresses their call in the context of their personal history. We encourage every Aspirant to find a Spiritual Director to meet with for the entirety of the ordination process.
For everything you need to know about the Path of Discernment to Holy Orders, read the Candidate Guide below.
Resources for the Local Process
“What’s Your Goal in the Ordination Process?” with the Rev. Trish Nelson
Are you interested in discerning a call to Holy Orders? If so, what should your goals be? How should you define success? The Rev. Trish Nelson of Christ Church Overland Park discusses what you can expect as you begin the Path of Discernment to Holy Orders with C4SO.
“What It’s Like Meeting with a Parish Discernment Committee” with the Rev. Jason Veach
Meeting with a Parish Discernment Committee is an important step along the Path of Discernment to Holy Orders—but it can feel intimidating at first. The Rev. Jason Veach of Christ Church Overland Park gives a snapshot of what the experience was like for him.
“Discerning a Call to Holy Orders with Your Spouse” with the Rev. Jin Cho
The Rev. Jin Cho, clergy at Holy Trinity Costa Mesa, talks about the importance of mutual discernment with your spouse when you are considering the Path of Discernment to Holy Orders.
Important Documents
Candidate Guide
This downloadable, in-depth guide will guide individuals along the Path of Discernment. Included are practical resources, Self-Reflection Questions, information on preparing a Spiritual Autobiography, and a Frequently Asked Questions section.
Application for Holy Orders
