Priesthood

All baptized people are called to participate in the co-creation of God's kingdom of justice and peace. For most, the effective fulfillment of their God-given ministry is lived out within the context of daily life. For some, however, their part of God's mission is most appropriately exercised as a priest – combining a range of leadership roles in local faith communities: presider, pastor, preacher, teacher, visionary leader, administrator, transformational change agent…

Individuals who feel called to the priesthood are invited to test that vocation in a journey of discernment with their parish and the diocese. To help individuals discern their call to ministry, a list and explanation of competencies for ordination to the priesthood in the Anglican Church of Canada is available.

Inquiries are required to meet first with the Bishop. With the Bishop’s invitation, the inquirer will meet with the Executive Assistant and be provided application forms. Based on their submitted material and a recommendation from their parish, applicants may be invited to an applicant interview day.

Applicants who are accepted as candidates of the Diocese of Niagara begin a two-year period of formation before ordination. At no time during the candidacy process can the diocese guarantee ordination to an applicant. The Anglican Church of Canada prohibits ordination unless a job is available to the ordinand. On occasion, a candidate may be asked to interview with other bishops and will receive references to enable them to do so.