Expert · Training and formation
Episcopacy
This training path is available to selected candidates. Our Director of Formation, Bishop-Elect Morgan Norman Frank, can advise on discernment, consideration for admission and the training appropriate to your ministry.
Study outline
The following units must be completed before a candidate is considered for consecration. Each published unit carries 20 points.
Unit A: The orders and your formation
An essay on the seven minor orders in the Liberal Catholic Church, your knowledge of them and the skills gained through your progression. Written work should be around 5,000 to 7,000 words.
Unit B: Christ as shepherd
Explore your own understanding of whether Christ was a shepherd to the people. This is an opinion-based essay of around 1,500 words, assessed through your understanding and research.
Unit C: Parish, diocese and ministry plan
Explain the differences between a parish and a diocese and your understanding of both. Prepare a clear ministry plan for the ministry and diocese you propose to lead as a newly consecrated bishop. Written work should be around 3,000 words per document.
Units A, B and C may be completed as written work, a video piece or a Microsoft Teams presentation with the Presiding Bishop and Dean of the Seminary.
Unit D: Catechism
Read parts three and four of the Catechism and present your work at a Microsoft Teams meeting.
How formation works
Learning is primarily remote and essay-based, alongside practical training with a tutor. Practical work includes preparing an altar for Mass, serving at the altar and, as formation progresses, celebrating Mass.
Study is intended to fit alongside the other responsibilities in your life, with generous assignment deadlines. Essays generally remain within a maximum of around 7,000 words.
Students with additional learning needs, including dyslexia, may present their work to seminary teachers through Microsoft Teams, with the same standing as written submissions.
Assessment looks at your understanding of the question and the quality of your research. Some questions recur at different stages so tutors can follow your development. Work may need to be revised if research is insufficient. Submit your own work and reference any sources or quotations you use.
Discuss your training path
The formation structure includes Seminarian, Ordinand, Reader, Subdiaconate, Diaconate, Priesthood and Bishop. Speak with the Director of Formation about the path appropriate to you, your timetable and how to submit your work.
For advice, consideration, discernment and formation assistance, contact Bishop-Elect Morgan Norman Frank directly.