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.
The Committee on Ministry (COM) is the committee 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 committee reports its observations and makes recommendations about those discerning a call to ordination. The committee 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.
Resources offered by the Committee 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
- Application Forms for Discerning a Call to Ordination as a Priest
The current chairperson of the Committee is Dr. Lisa Schnell.
Individuals who are engaged in a discernment process may submit their completed application materials, as outlined in the appropriate handbook, to bishopsassistant@diovermont.org.
