Becoming a Deacon

[jmell]

Does one have to attend seminary to become a deacon. I've been trying to do some research on it but can't find anything

[ania]

Some deacons do, some don't, it depends on the local bishop.
My grandfather became a priest without going to seminary, my father was a deacon for 28 years after graduating seminary, before becoming a priest.  I know many deacons who didn't go, but then, many who did.  All up to the bishop.

[gregory2]

The OCA has a "late vocations program," generally for guys who are interested in the diaconate, but who already have careers and families, and for whom moving to a seminary is not always possible or practical.  A deacon at my parish was ordained last Dec 03, and completed his preparation for the diaconate in this manner.  I am looking into this program for my future as well.  Of course, the "late vocations program" has to be under the direct supervision of one's priest, and before any studying and preparation can begin, it must be approved by the Bishop and/or by the OCA coucil of bishops altogether.  I believe that if one completes the "late vocations program" and is ordained a deacon, and wants to then be a priest, it is almost always required to spend at least some time at a seminary.  

I am not sure if other Orthodox churches in the USA/Canada have similar programs.  

As far as I know, being tonsured a Reader or becoming a sub-deacon does not require as intensive a program.  Best to inquire directly with one's priest about these matters.

[optxogokcoc]

JMELL, are you considering?

[stpaulphilip]

The St. Stephen's Course through the Antiochian church offers an online program to become a deacon, in conjunction with studying with your priest and the blessing of your Bishop. 

Paul

[Nikolaostheservant]

try this its the holy cross decon program.

http://www.hchc.edu/holycross/academics/spd.html

or the anriochian

http://www.antiochian.org/638

[Nikolaostheservant]

Some deacons do, some don't, it depends on the local bishop.
My grandfather became a priest without going to seminary, my father was a deacon for 28 years after graduating seminary, before becoming a priest.  I know many deacons who didn't go, but then, many who did.  All up to the bishop.

How did yr grandfather do that.

I know in the canons schooling not a requirement but nowadays you need a masters in div to be a priest.

In the good old days your Biship would do the herotonia over your head and u were a Priest.

How long ago did your GF become a priest.

[Michał Kalina]

Ania has not logged here since 2007.

[Nikolaostheservant]

Ania has not logged here since 2007.

Oh ok...thanks

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