Vocations
Joining the Order of Saints Francis and Dominic requires serious thought, prayerful discernment, and a bit of patience tempered with love. The Order is also constantly discerning itself, and in that light, we recognize there is diversity in all facets of life; religious life should be no different.
Prayer-filled
Discernment in Action
We look for members who are committed to the unique charism of the Order especially as it relates to the Anglo-Catholic and Emergent movement. We look for dedication and resilience in those who might be in remote locations. We know, some of us firsthand, how difficult it is to live in remote locations away from Sisters and Brothers and we know how challenging continuing a vocation can be in such circumstances.
While ecumenism is incredibly important, the Order does NOT operate independent of our Body of Christ, the Anglican Free Communion International, and as such supports and is responsible for serving the People of God within the Anglican Free Communion International. Once we’ve gotten to know you, ALL applications for Holy Orders are made through the Anglican Free Communion International.
We do not pay stipends to Sisters or Brothers, nor do we cover expenses. Most clergy within the Anglican Free Communion International support themselves through a combination of ministerial and secular work, although a few support themselves through full-time ministry. ALL clergy must be financially independent. We also do not, at this time, have communal living facilities.
We look for a good fit between the applicant and the Order/Church, so that a long-term and productive relationship can be assured. Before you make application we need to hear from you. The application process itself actually begins with prayer and careful discernment and with contacting either a representative near you or our Servant General through our Contact Page. We will NOT accept applicants if we don’t know who you are or have never spoken with you.
Requirements
Education
You must be, at the very least, a high school graduate.
If you are not a HS graduate, we will work with you to complete your eduction.
If you are a college graduate or have taken college courses, you will be required to supply official transcripts as proof of your educational background. These will need to be sealed and sent by the education institution and will need to be in English.
Transcripts from online diploma mills will NOT be accepted and will result in automatic denial of application (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diploma_mill).
Education credits from non-accredited institutions may be considered so long as they are not from diploma mills.
You will be required to continue your education:
Continued education is a way to improve ourselves and if we are also teachers/preachers, we must continue to learn to be present to those entrusted to our care.
We are continuing to update and create new education opportunities through our partnerships. However, you are still required to engage in independent reading, external studies, or continuing education through other entities.
Background
As part of the application process with the Anglican Free Communion International, you will be required to submit to a background check.
There are some things that may prevent the fullness of service. That said, we believe in rehabilitation and second chances - within context.
Some backgrounds may change "how" we celebrate the Divine.
If you have a criminal background, it is best to be up front and honest so that together we may find a way for you to serve.
You may be subject to a financial background check or credit check.
Poor money handling skills can impeed growth. Together we can help you build new skills to move forward.
Incardination
If you are already a clergy member from another Anglo/Catholic or religious institution, you will be asked to supply copies of all certificates of ordination and post-secondary theological training – both formal and informal.
All ordinations WILL be investigated to ensure authenticity.
We WILL accept training from non-accredited institutions; however, as stated in the education section above, we will NOT accept candidates who have purchased degrees from “diploma mills”.
The Order of Saints Francis and Dominic will not accept ministerial credentials from internet-based churches or similar institutions that offer “instant” or “online” ordination.
Formation
All order members, including the Servants General, must engage in ongoing formation.
Connect With Us:
For additional information or other requirements, please contact our Servant General through our Contact Page.
