Vocations

Application for Reception, Incardination, or Ordination in the Orthodox Archdiocese of America

Clergy Discernment and Application Process

The Orthodox Archdiocese of America upholds a rigorous process for discernment and formation of its clergy. Candidates must possess a Master of Divinity (or an equivalent theological degree) and undergo a period of observation under the guidance of a Spiritual Father. The standard timeline for ordination includes:

  • One year of lay membership within the Archdiocese.
  • Six months in minor orders as part of their clerical formation.
  • Six months serving as a deacon.
  • A waiting period for ordination to the priesthood at the discretion of the Bishop Ordinary.

If educational requirements have not yet been met, a candidate may concurrently pursue theological studies while serving in minor orders until all requirements are fulfilled.

Personal Information

  • Full Name:
  • Date of Birth:
  • Contact Information (Address, Phone, Email):
  • Citizenship:
  • Current Occupation:
  • Marital Status: (Provide full details of past marriages/divorces, if applicable)
  • Number of Children:
  • Have you ever been involved in any “alternative lifestyles” (e.g., polyamory, bigamy, homosexuality, transgender issues)? (Provide full disclosure and explanation.)

Educational Background

  • List all degrees, institutions attended, and dates of graduation. (Minimum requirement: Master of Divinity or equivalent)
  • Attach all relevant transcripts and academic certificates.

Previous Ecclesiastical History

  • Have you been ordained in another Christian denomination? (Provide full details: date of ordination, denomination, position, and reason for leaving.)
  • Have you ever applied for incardination or reception into another Church? (Provide details.)
  • Have you been involved in any religious groups, the occult, Freemasonry, or any secret society? (Disclose full history and provide details.)

Doctrinal Statements

Please provide detailed personal doctrinal statements on the following topics:

  • The Incarnation of Christ:
  • The Holy Trinity:
  • Baptism and Confirmation/Chrismation:
  • Apostolic Succession and the Church:
  • The Seven Sacraments:
  • Conversion: (Your understanding of the process and what it means to you.)

Personal Testimony

Provide a comprehensive account of your personal faith journey, detailing your conversion, spiritual growth, theological understanding, and relationship with Christ.

Pastoral and Ministry Vision

  • Describe your vision for the position of ministry to which you feel called (Diaconate or Presbyterate).
  • Detail how you intend to contribute to the Ancient Church of the West, including your ministry focus and goals.

Theological and Ethical Stances

Please provide your stance on the following issues:

  • Abortion:
  • Divorce and remarriage:
  • Homosexuality and transgenderism:
  • Biblical understanding of family life:
  • Holy Orders:
  • Church polity and governance:

Additional Personal Information

  • Have you been divorced or remarried? (Provide full details, including chronological order in relation to your reception of Holy Baptism.)
  • Have you been involved in any “alternative lifestyles”? (If so, disclose and explain.)

Oath of Submission

“I, [Applicant’s Name], hereby solemnly declare my full submission to the authority of the Bishop Ordinary of the Orthodox Archdiocese of America. I pledge to honor, respect, and uphold the decisions and guidance of the Church in the process of reception, incardination, or ordination. I further commit to living in accordance with the teachings of the Ancient Orthodox Faith, as outlined in the canons and declarations of the Seven Ecumenical Councils, and to uphold the doctrinal integrity and liturgical life of the Church.”

Signature:
Date:

Required Documentation

Applicants must submit the following documents:

  • Academic transcripts and certificates
  • Copies of previous ordination certificates (if applicable)
  • Letters of recommendation from current and past ecclesiastical supervisors
  • Relevant legal or personal documents pertaining to marriages/divorces, etc.

A background check fee of $150 USD will be charged for applicants who pass the initial screening.

For all vocational inquiries and submissions, please contact:
📧 [email protected]

This application reflects the theological, spiritual, and pastoral rigor required for ministry within the Orthodox Archdiocese of America. Please ensure all sections are completed thoroughly and truthfully.