General Requirements for Clergy : In most cases, a Master of Divinity, 90 hour MTS, or equivalent degree is required. The CEEC will consider experienced clergy based upon verifiable ministry experience (approximately 10 years minimum). Additionally, clergy who live in countries whose standard mode of ministerial education is vocationally or by equivalent undergraduate study are not restricted from applying. In some cases, the CEEC may require completion of a canonical and theology examination, and/or continuing education. In all cases, an interview to determine current educational and ministerial qualifications will be completed. Additionally, consent must be given for a background investigation.
Ordained Clergy under Apostolic Succession : Clergy already ordained under Apostolic Succession and in good standing with your current endorsing agency/denomination/official can in most cases be received into the CEEC simply by transfer.
Clergy not ordained under Apostolic Succession : A letter from your current endorsing body (deacon board or elders for non-historical/independent denominations) indicating no current issues of an immoral or unethical nature exist from two independent sources is necessary. A postulancy period under the oversight of a bishop in cooperation with a discernment group is normally expected. This will be followed by a period of time serving in the diaconate ministry. During this time, any educational requirements will be completed concurrently.
Candidates for a Seminary Degree (MTS or MDiv) : For currently enrolled students in seminary, an application can be completed and an interview accomplished to enter into a postulancy period coinciding with your first year studies. When contacting the CEEC, please indicate your ministry emphasis area (missions, pastoral, etc.) in your contact e-mail - this will aid the CEEC in getting you in touch with a bishop in the best position to assist you. In many cases, candidates for Holy Orders in Seminary will be ordained to the diaconate prior to entering their final semester/final 2 quarters.
Lay Ministers/Second Career Callings : The CEEC understands the value of experienced Lay Ministers and those who have been called to ministry as a second vocation. An initial interview will be taken to determine current educational and ministerial qualifications. In all cases, a canonical examination (open book, 4 weeks to complete) will be given to aid in developing a personalized continuing education program. A postulancy period under the oversight of a bishop in cooperation with a discernment group is normally expected. This will be followed by a period of time serving in the diaconate ministry. During this time, any educational requirements, leveling courses, and practicums will be completed concurrently.