The African Episcopal Church acknowledges the three major Orders of the Apostolic Priesthood (Deacon, Priest, Bishop). We accept both male and female clergy and endorse clergy who have completed the requirements for reception into Holy Orders including, but not limited to the following:
Permanent Deacons
Minimum Age: 21 years old
Education: A bachelor’s degree from a recognized and accredited institution; completion of Catechism and Spiritual Formation; and fulfillment of all requirements for the Licentiate in Sacred Theology via the Midwestern School of Divinity.
Requirements:
- Be a communicant of a parish in communion with the AEC and receive approval and endorsement from their Rector or Parish Priest.
- Obtain approval from their Diocesan Bishop.
- Complete the Catechism and Spiritual Formation requirements of the AEC.
- Receive endorsement from the Vicar for Priests before ordination.
Transitional Deacon - Priesthood
Transitional Deacon – Priesthood: the following requirements are for Transitional Deacons working towards full Priesthood
Minimum Age: 25 years old
Education: Fulfillment of the requirements specified for Diaconal ordination, including Priestly Formation, and completion of all requirements for the Master of Sacred Theology (MST) or Master of Divinity (M.Div.) via the Metropolitan Christian University or Midwestern School of Divinity.
Requirements:
- Be a communicant of a parish in communion with the AEC and receive approval and endorsement from their Rector or Parish Priest.
- Obtain approval from their Diocesan Bishop.
- Complete the Catechism and Spiritual Formation requirements of the AEC.
- Receive endorsement from the Vicar for Priests before ordination.
