The Commission on Ministry (COM) is a standing commission that works with those discerning a call to ordination. In this capacity, the COM interviews those seeking ordination, offering feedback and prayers throughout a discernment process. At the bishop’s request, the commission reports its observations and makes recommendations about those discerning a call to ordination. The commission also discusses and advises the diocese on general issues regarding ordained ministry. Members are appointed by the bishop and include both lay and ordained individuals.
The Episcopal Diocese of Vermont invites those whose spiritual journey has led them to consider ordination as priest or deacon to engage in a time of discernment. Those who sense such a call should begin by talking to their local priest, to friends in the church, and to others who have chosen the path of discernment.
Resources offered by the Commission on Ministry include:
- Parish Discernment Handbook
- Handbook for Discerning a Call to Ordination as a Deacon
- Handbook for Discerning a Call to Ordination as a Priest
The current chairperson of the Commission is Dr. Lisa Schnell.
