If possible, the committee should report its results to the Vestry within three months after its formation. Any variations in the meeting schedule of the committee shall be made in consultation with the Commission on Ministry liaison person. The Congregational Discernment Committee is a committee of the Vestry. Its purpose is to enable the vestry to make an informed decision as to whether or not to support a person as an aspirant for ordained ministry. The Congregational Discernment Committee's role is not support, but discernment.
All material is treated confidentially as are all aspects of the discernment process.
An aspirant should be able to speak of his or her sense of vocation to ministry and mission, referring both to their own conviction and the extent to which others have confirmed it. Their sense of vocation should be obedient, realistic, and informed. Faith An aspirant should show an understanding of the Christian faith and a desire to deepen that understanding. The aspirant should demonstrate personal commitment to Christ and a capacity to communicate the Gospel. The aspirant should show evidence of a commitment to a spiritual discipline involving individual and corporate prayer and worship.