Discernment, study and service
Training and formation
The Liberal Catholic Church of St Stephens International offers training courses to selected candidates, with paths for Ordinand, Reader, Deacon, Priesthood and Episcopacy.
For advice, consideration, discernment and help finding the appropriate training path, contact our Director of Formation, Bishop-Elect Morgan Norman Frank.
Training is arranged directly with the Director of Formation. Please contact him about admission, tutoring, assignments and submission arrangements.
Explore the formation paths
Beginner
Ordinand
6 essay assignments, normally around 3,000 words each, with alternative presentation by agreement with the tutor.
Read about Ordinand formationBeginner
Reader
6 essay assignments, normally around 3,000 words each, with alternative presentation by agreement with the tutor.
Read about Reader formationIntermediate
Deacon
6 essay assignments, normally around 4,000 words each, with alternative presentation by agreement with the tutor.
Read about Deacon formationIntermediate
Priesthood
10 essay assignments, normally around 5,000 words each, with alternative presentation by agreement with the tutor.
Read about Priesthood formationExpert
Episcopacy
Study of the orders, Christ as shepherd, parish and diocesan ministry, and the Catechism, in preparation for consideration for consecration.
Read about Episcopacy formationA shared approach to learning
The seminary's formation structure progresses through Seminarian, Ordinand, Reader, Subdiaconate, Diaconate, Priesthood and Bishop. The published learning plan envisages two to three years towards priesthood, depending on dedication to study. Discuss your circumstances and discernment with the Director of Formation; a study timetable does not itself guarantee ordination.