Training for Ordained Ministry

Introducing the New Team

It has been a significant year of change and transition for those in Ordained Ministry Formation, and the Ministry Discernment Team as a whole. Following extensive reflection and conversation a new Team has been formed under the banner of Clergy Development, Training and Wellbeing. This Team, led by The Rev’d Michael Stalley, Director, brings together Vocational Exploration (the Rev’d Chris Bate) Ministry Enquiry and Formal Ministry Discernment (The Rev’d Michael Stalley), Formation for Ordained Ministry & Newly Ordained Clergy (The Right Rev’d Denise Ferguson), Wellbeing and Professional Development (Rebecca McLean) & Field Education (Vacant).

This team offers a comprehensive approach to ministry formation from initial exploration through until retirement – because formation never ends.

Watch this space as developments unfold.

Responding to the Call

Training for Ordained Ministry is a significant commitment, often emerging after an intense journey of reflection. Those who respond to a potential call are examined and tested, commit time, talents, and courage to step into what is an uncertain future. This can take several years. However, the call to be faithful to the Gospel, to spread the Good News and grow God’s kingdom amongst all of God’s people is the stimulus that keeps the call alive.

A creative depiction of the church in LEGO.

Ordination students at their final service for 2025

The face of ministry has changed dramatically in the past decade, and this calls for diverse skill. Therefore, the training requirements are complex. Students juggle family, work, training, and study requirements. This is a considerable commitment. Please pray for them.

Ordination students at their final service for 2025

Eleven students completed the 2025 Formation Program. Four people were ordained Deacon at the recent Diocesan Ordinations.

Ordination students gathered at St John’s Cathedral

Looking Ahead to 2026

In 2026 there will be fifteen students participating in the formation program for ordained ministry (renamed Grow from 2026), and thirteen clergy in the formation for the first three years.  (renamed Emerge from 2026)

Inside the Grow Program

There are four components to Grow: Ordained Ministry Formation Program.

  • The Formation Intensive Program comprises six three-day training weekends, and a three-day silent Retreat, as well as attendance at various Diocesan services and Synod. The aim is to equip students with the leadership skills to serve in diverse and often complex ministry situations.

  • The practical outworking of these skills happens in Field Education placements, which may be in parishes or chaplaincies across the diocese. Students commit to 200 hours a year, in addition to Sundays, to grow their practical skills, guided by an experienced Training Incumbent. We are very grateful for the investment Training Incumbents, and Presenters commit to supporting and enabling this training.

  • Alongside the Formation program sits the Academic Program provided by St Francis College. While there are Archbishop’s Academic requirements that must be completed, there is also scope for additional study. Depending on previous tertiary study, this may be at an undergraduate or graduate level. The Team at St Francis College guides students as to best options and ably supports them throughout their study.

  • This entire period of Formation is undergirded by Personal Development, prayer, theological reflection, personal spiritual development, growth in self-awareness and emotional intelligence.

Please pray for all who are exploring a call to ministry – Lay or Ordained.

If you want to know more, contact the Director of Clergy Development, Training and Wellbeing michael.stalley@anglicanchurchsq.ord.au​


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