In more formal setting it is called Formation for Holy Orders.
It’s not just about training someone to do priestly work…
it’s about shaping who the person becomes.
1. What Priestly Formation Really Means
Priestly formation is the process by which a person is prepared, spiritually, intellectually, pastorally, and morally, for ordination into the priesthood.
It’s formation, not just education.
The goal is not to produce a performer,
but to raise a faithful shepherd of souls.
2. The Anglican Approach: Whole-Person Formation
In Anglican tradition, formation is usually understood in four integrated dimensions:
Spiritual Formation
Learning how to live with God daily, prayer, discipline, holiness.
Rooted in Scripture, the Daily Office, and sacramental life.
Academic (Theological) Formation
Study of Scripture, doctrine, Church history, liturgy, and theology.
This is where depth is built so the priest can rightly teach and guard the faith.
Pastoral Formation
Learning how to care for people, counselling, preaching, visitation, leadership.
Real-life ministry under supervision.
Human Formation
Character, emotional maturity, humility, integrity.
Because who you are matters just as much as what you know.
3. Key Stages in Anglican Priestly Formation
Though it varies slightly by province or diocese, it often follows this path
Discernment
A sense of calling, tested within the local church and with the bishop.
Postulancy / Candidacy
Formal recognition and preparation begins. The Church is now walking closely with the individual.
Theological Training
Usually in a seminary or theological college.
This can take several years depending on the context.
Diaconate (Transitional Deacon)
Before becoming a priest, the candidate is first made a deacon, to learn humility, service, and practical ministry.
Ordination to the Priesthood
After a period (often about a year), the deacon is ordained priest.
4. Formation Doesn’t End at Ordination
This part is important.
In Anglican understanding, formation is lifelong.
Even after ordination, a priest continues to grow through
• Mentorship (often under a Vicar or senior priest)
• Ongoing theological education
• Retreats and spiritual direction
• Daily discipline in prayer and study
5. The Heart of It All
At its core, priestly formation is about this
Becoming a vessel God can trust with His people.
Not just gifted.
Not just knowledgeable.
But formed.
Formed in Christ.
Formed for service.
Formed to stand at the altar and in the world with integrity.
So when the Anglican Church speaks of priestly formation,
it’s not just preparing someone for a role
It’s shaping a life that will carry Word, Sacrament, and Shepherding faithfully.
And that kind of formation… takes time, grace, and deep surrender.
Acknowledgement
Anglican Church order
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