Honorary Degrees

Purpose and Vision

The Good Shepherd Old Catholic Theological Seminary, under the ecclesiastical oversight of the Sacred Heart of Jesus Charismatic Old Catholic Church, occasionally confers Honorary Doctoral Degrees (honoris causa) upon individuals who have demonstrated exceptional Christian leadership, theological contribution, or outstanding service to the Church and society.

This recognition reflects the Seminary’s commitment to honor those whose lives exemplify the mission of Christ through faithful ministry, academic excellence, social engagement, and spiritual influence.

Nature of the Honorary Degree

The Honorary Doctorate is an ecclesiastical honor, not an earned academic credential. It is conferred as a symbol of distinction and spiritual acknowledgment for notable service, not through coursework, research, or formal enrollment.

Recipients of this honor may be recognized with titles such as:

Degree Title

Abbreviation

Typical Recipients / Purpose

Doctor of Divinity

D.D. (Honoris Causa)

For exceptional Christian leadership, theological insight, and pastoral excellence

Doctor of Sacred Theology

S.T.D. (Honoris Causa)

For distinguished theological scholars and defenders of Church doctrine

Doctor of Ministry

D.Min. (Honoris Causa)

For exemplary service in pastoral, missionary, or congregational ministry

Doctor of Canon Law

J.C.D. (Honoris Causa)

For significant contributions to ecclesiastical law, governance, or canonical reform

Doctor of Humanities

D.Hum. (Honoris Causa)

For outstanding humanitarian, educational, or social service inspired by the Gospel

Doctor of Letters

D.Litt. (Honoris Causa)

For Christian writers, theologians, and educators of enduring influence

Doctor of Sacred Music

D.S.M. (Honoris Causa)

For notable contribution to sacred music, liturgical arts, and worship renewal

Doctor of Christian Leadership

D.C.L. (Honoris Causa)

For Christian leaders who have advanced faith-based leadership and ministry innovation

These honors express the Seminary’s gratitude to those who have made a measurable impact in advancing the Gospel, strengthening theological education, and promoting compassion, integrity, and unity within the wider Body of Christ.

Eligibility and Criteria

Honorary degrees are granted by nomination and approval of the Seminary Council.
Candidates must demonstrate one or more of the following:

• Distinguished service in pastoral or episcopal ministry.

• Significant theological or academic contribution to Christian doctrine and education.

• Proven record of leadership in missions, ecumenical dialogue, or church development.

• Exemplary moral and spiritual character consistent with the teachings of Christ.

• Notable contribution to humanitarian or social justice causes inspired by the Gospel.

Process of Nomination

1. Nomination Submission:
   A written nomination may be made by a diocesan bishop, seminary faculty member, or recognized church leader within or outside the communion.

2. Review and Verification:
   The Seminary Council carefully evaluates each nominee’s background, ministry record, and contribution to the faith.

3. Council Approval:
   Upon approval, the Chancellor and Rector jointly confer the honorary degree during a formal convocation or ecclesiastical ceremony.

4. Public Recognition:
   Honorees may be featured in the Seminary’s official publications or ceremonies, recognizing their lifelong service and witness to the Gospel.

Important Notice
The Seminary emphasizes that Honorary Doctorates do not grant academic privileges equivalent to earned degrees, nor may they be used as qualifications for ecclesiastical, academic or professional positions.
They represent the Seminary’s spiritual recognition of merit, not an accreditation-based credential.
Recipients are, however, encouraged to continue serving the Church and community as models of faithful discipleship and theological integrity.

Note on Administration and Ceremony
The Seminary does not sell honorary degrees. However, recipients may be invited to make a voluntary donation to support the Seminary’s educational and mission programs, as well as to cover ceremonial or documentation costs associated with the conferment. Such contributions do not influence eligibility or approval.
By bestowing honorary degrees, the Good Shepherd Old Catholic Theological Seminary affirms that scholarship and sanctity are not separate callings, but two expressions of the same divine wisdom.
In honoring others, we honor Christ, “from whom every good and perfect gift descends” (James 1:17).
For individuals seeking structured, academic qualifications through coursework and formal theological study, please visit our Academic Programs page to explore our structured degree offerings.