Ordination & Ministerial Formation
“No one takes this honor upon himself, but only he who is called by God.” – Hebrews 5:4
A Sacred Journey of Calling and Consecration
At Good Shepherd Old Catholic Theological Seminary, ordination is not merely a rite—it is a sacred calling, a lifelong vocation of service to Christ and His Church. Our formation process is designed to help each candidate discern God’s will, grow in holiness, and develop the pastoral, intellectual, and spiritual maturity necessary for ordained ministry.
Ordination within the Old Catholic tradition stands as a visible sign of apostolic continuity—transmitted through the laying on of hands and prayer, in unity with the wider Catholic and apostolic faith. Through this process, the Church sets apart those whom God has called to proclaim the Gospel, administer the sacraments, and shepherd His people with compassion and wisdom.
Stages of Ministerial Formation
Our seminary follows a structured, prayerful progression that ensures every candidate receives balanced formation—academic, spiritual, pastoral, and human. The stages typically include:
Minor Orders
Candidates may first be instituted into the minor orders such as Reader, Acolyte, or Subdeacon. These early ministries cultivate discipline, humility, and deeper participation in the liturgical life of the Church.
The Diaconate
The diaconate represents the first major order of service. Deacons assist in liturgy, preach the Word, and engage in works of charity. They model Christ the Servant and learn the rhythms of sacrificial ministry in the life of the Church.
The Priesthood
Priestly ordination marks a deeper configuration to Christ the High Priest. Those called to the presbyterate are entrusted with the preaching of the Gospel, celebration of the Eucharist, absolution of sins, and pastoral leadership within the community of faith.
Episcopal Formation (Optional)
For those called to higher ecclesiastical service, formation for the episcopate may follow. Episcopal ordination is a gift and burden of oversight, demanding deep prayer, theological wisdom, and fatherly care for the people of God.
Requirements for Ordination
Ordination is never automatic upon graduation. Every candidate must demonstrate both personal readiness and ecclesiastical approval. To be considered, a seminarian must:
Successfully complete all required theological and pastoral formation programs.
Exhibit spiritual maturity, emotional stability, and a life of moral integrity.
Be recommended by formation directors and mentors.
Show consistent participation in the sacramental and prayer life of the seminary.
Receive canonical approval from the presiding Bishop or Ordinary.
All ordination candidates are evaluated through a process of spiritual discernment, academic assessment, and pastoral evaluation. The seminary works closely with Church leadership to ensure that each ordination upholds the sacred trust of apostolic succession.
Discernment & Spiritual Direction
From admission to ordination, every seminarian walks under the guidance of a spiritual director. Discernment is central to formation—it is not enough to desire ordination; one must be called, prepared, and confirmed by the Church. Through retreats, counseling, and community life, candidates learn to hear God’s voice and to respond faithfully to His call.
The Ordination Liturgy
The Ordination Mass is the culmination of a candidate’s years of preparation and prayer. During the sacred rite, the Bishop lays hands upon the ordinand, invoking the Holy Spirit to confer the grace of the ministry. It is a moment of profound transformation, where the Church rejoices in the gift of a new servant-leader consecrated for the work of the Gospel.
After Ordination
Ordination is the beginning—not the end—of ministry. Newly ordained clergy continue to receive pastoral mentorship and ongoing formation. They are sent forth to serve in parishes, missions, and ministries across Africa and beyond, as ambassadors of Christ and stewards of His mysteries.
Your Call to Serve
If you sense God calling you to serve as a deacon, priest, or bishop within the Old Catholic tradition, we invite you to begin your journey of discernment and formation with us.
Formation begins with prayer, continues with study, and blossoms in service. Let us walk with you as you seek to answer God’s call.
👉 Begin Your Discernment Journey – Apply for Admission Here