Stage 4 - Emerge (Formation for the Newly Ordained)
Newly ordained deacons and priests usually serve one or more assistant curacies. During this time, they experience
ordained ministry with the support and guidance of experienced deacons and priests. The Post Ordination ‘Graduate
Clergy Training Program’ assists reflection on this experience. Every baptised person is assumed to be engaged in a
life-long process of growing in ministry and learning from that engagement. Special attention is given to this task in
the first few years following ordination as a major transition is negotiated. This program runs for three years following
ordination as a deacon.
Following satisfactory completion of an assistant curacy, the Archbishop may proceed to appoint a deacon or priest to
another appointment. This may be:
an incumbent of a parish
a position in a team ministry
a chaplaincy to a school, hospital or other organisation
some other ministry position as models and needs emerge
Expectations of Ordained Person
The Archbishop has certain expectations of all those who are ordained. These include:
Participation in local on call hospital rosters
participation in Diocesan Synod
participation in the life of the local area deanery
attendance at the annual diocesan or regional clergy conference
participation in an annual diocesan clergy retreat
regular meetings with a Spiritual Director
regular supervision from a qualified Professional Supervisor
annual Ministry Review
commitment to continuing education (including Emerge Program)
compliance with the code of conduct ‘Faithfulness in Service’
CONTINUING EDUCATION & DEVELOPMENT IN MINISTRY
Learning in ministry does not finish with the completion of three years of the Graduate Clergy Program but continues
throughout life. Such opportunities to learn are taken very seriously and there is a clear expectation that all those
ordained and holding the Archbishop’s licence will participate in in-service training courses, clergy conferences and
diocesan retreats.
St Francis College offers a range of postgraduate courses in areas of ministry and theology, as well as opportunities
for advanced academic studies. Clergy are especially encouraged to:
make active use of Roscoe Library at the College and to audit lectures in areas of interest
engage in ongoing accredited professional development
undertake training as Spiritual Directors or Professional Supervisors