The Archdiocese of the River Valley

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Office of Vocations

The Archdiocese of the River Valley is part of the African Episcopal Church. Therefore, the Archdiocese acknowledges the three major Orders of the Apostolic Priesthood (Deacon, Priest, Bishop). We accept both male and female clergy and endorse clergy who have completed the requirements for reception into Holy Orders including, but not limited to the following:

The Diaconate

Diaconate: the following requirements are for Permanent Deacons
Min. Age: 21 years old
Education: A bachelor’s degree from a recognized and accredited school; completion of Catechism and Spiritual Formation, completion of all the requirements for the Licentiate in Sacred Theology via the Midwestern School of Divinity. 
Requirements:
    1. Must be a communicant of a parish in communion with the African Episcopal Church and receive the approval and endorsement of his/her Rector or Parish Priest.
    2. Must obtain the approval of his/her Diocesan Bishop.
    3. Must complete the Catechism and Spiritual Formation requirements of the African Episcopal Church
    4. Must receive the endorsement of the Vicar for Priests prior to ordination.

The Priesthood

Priesthood: the following requirements are for Transitional Deacons working towards full Priesthood
Min. Age: 25 years old
Education: must meet the requirements as specified for Diaconal ordination including, Priestly Formation and all of the requirements for the Master of Sacred Theology (MST) or Master of Divinity (M.Div.) via the Metropolitan Christian University or Midwestern School of Divinity.
Requirements:
  1. Must be a communicant of a parish in communion with the African Episcopal Church and receive the approval and endorsement of his/her Rector or Parish Priest.
  2. Must obtain the approval of his/her Diocesan Bishop.
  3. Must complete the Catechism and Spiritual Formation requirements of the African Episcopal Church.
  4. Must receive the endorsement of the Vicar for Priests prior to ordination.

Holy Orders:
The African Episcopal Church can trace its Apostolic lineage directly back to St. Peter, St. Paul, and all the Apostles. We have the same unbroken line of succession that makes the one, holy, catholic (universal) and apostolic church so grand. 

With Valid Holy Orders, the Holy Spirit Himself is present and active in all the Sacraments celebrated.