Commision on Ministry

  • Answer the Call to Ministry

    Answer the Call to Ministry

    Jesus invites all baptized persons into ministry—lay or ordained. Begin your lifelong journey of discernment through prayer, self-reflection, and guided conversation to discover your unique call to serve God and others.

  • Guided Support on Your Journey

    Guided Support on Your Journey

    Receive faithful guidance from the Bishop, Commission on Ministry, and Standing Committee. Engage in conversations with family, friends, and your congregation to explore God’s plan for your ministry.

  • Join a Community of Disciples

    Join a Community of Disciples

    Be part of a Diocese committed to proclaiming God’s reconciling love through compassion, justice, and witness in Wisconsin and beyond. Serve in a faith-filled community actively building God’s kingdom.

  • Take the First Step

    Take the First Step

    Ministry begins with listening, asking questions, and opening your heart to God’s call. Start your journey by reviewing the manual and contacting the Commission on Ministry for guidance through COM@diowis.org.

Where do I start?

  • We are excited to hear about your interest in exploring a call to the priesthood! The journey toward ordination in the Episcopal Church is one of discernment, reflection, and guidance, supported by your congregation and the Diocese. Here's how to get started:

    1. Begin with Discernment:

      • Discernment is a prayerful process of exploring how God is calling you to serve. Start by speaking with your parish priest and engaging in self-reflection about your gifts and call to ministry.

    2. Explore the Process:

      • The steps to ordination include working with a Parish Ministry Discernment Committee, attending a Ministry Discernment Weekend, and meeting with the Commission on Ministry (COM). Details can be found in Section 4.3: Discerning a Call to Priesthood in the diocesan manual.

    3. Connect with Support:

      • Your journey will include guidance from the Bishop, the COM, and your congregation. They will walk with you through prayer, preparation, and the formal steps required to pursue Holy Orders.

    4. Learn More:

      • Review the diocesan manual for a complete overview of the process and requirements, including forms, interviews, and additional resources. Sections 5.1-7 provide key insights into discernment committees, candidacy, and ordination interviews.

    Next Steps:
    We encourage you to reach out to the Commission on Ministry for an initial conversation about your call and the steps ahead.

    Contact Information:
    The Episcopal Diocese of Wisconsin
    PO Box 137, Oshkosh, WI 54903
    com@diowis.org

  • We are excited to hear about your interest in exploring a call to the diaconate! The journey toward ordination as a deacon in the Episcopal Church is one of discernment, prayer, and guidance, supported by your congregation and the Diocese. Here's how to get started:

    Begin with Discernment:

    Discernment is a prayerful process of exploring how God is calling you to serve. Start by speaking with your parish priest and engaging in self-reflection about your gifts and call to ministry, particularly in service to the Church and the wider community.

    Explore the Process:

    The steps toward ordination include working with a Parish Ministry Discernment Committee, attending a Ministry Discernment Weekend, and meeting with the Commission on Ministry (COM). Details can be found in Section 4.3: Discerning a Call to the Diaconate in the diocesan manual.

    Connect with Support:

    Your journey will include guidance from the Bishop, the COM, and your congregation. Together, we will walk with you through prayer, preparation, and the formal steps required to pursue the diaconate.

    Learn More:

    Review the diocesan manual for a complete overview of the process and requirements, including forms, interviews, and additional resources. Sections 5.1-7 provide key insights into discernment committees, candidacy, and ordination interviews.

    Next Steps:

    We encourage you to reach out to the Commission on Ministry for an initial conversation about your call and the steps ahead.

    Contact Information:

    The Episcopal Diocese of Wisconsin
    PO Box 137, Oshkosh, WI 54903
    com@diowis.org

  • The COM manual is your comprehensive guide to discernment, ministry processes, and resources for those exploring or pursuing ministry in the Episcopal Church. It is available by scrolling down, or you can access it through the link here.

  • If you are searching for forms related to ministry discernment or other diocesan processes, we’re here to help. The available forms are listed further down on this page!

  • We encourage you to reach out! Whether you’re discerning a call to ministry or have questions about the process, we’re here to help. Start by contacting your parish priest, who can guide you in your initial steps. For more detailed support, you can connect with the Commission on Ministry.

    Contact Email:
    com@diowis.org

    We look forward to walking this journey with you!

COM Manual

The Commission on Ministry (COM) Manual is a comprehensive resource for individuals and congregations engaging in the discernment process within the Episcopal Diocese of Wisconsin. It provides clear guidance on exploring lay and ordained ministries, including steps for discerning a call to priesthood or diaconate, resources for Parish Discernment Committees, and detailed requirements for candidacy and ordination. With sections covering professional chaplaincy, necessary forms, and a glossary of terms, the manual is an essential tool for navigating the journey of ministry with clarity and support.

Contact Information:
The Episcopal Diocese of Wisconsin
PO Box 137, Oshkosh, WI 54903
com@diowis.org

Please reach out if you need any assistance or to let the Commission on Ministry know of your interest.

What's Included in the Manual:

  • The manual contains detailed information on discerning a call to ministry, lay and ordained ministry paths, required forms, glossary terms, and step-by-step guidance for each stage of the process.

  • Key Sections to Note:

    • Section 4.3: Discerning a Call to Priesthood

    • Section 5.1: Parish Ministry Discernment Committee for Nominees

    • Section 9: Required Forms and Letters of Application

COM Forms

If you are searching for forms related to ministry discernment or other diocesan processes, we’re here to help. The available forms are listed in the diocesan manual, but here’s a quick guide to get you started:

Available Forms:
All can be downloaded by selecting the corresponding button to the left (above on mobile).

  • Information Release Authorization

  • Behavior Screening Questionnaire

  • Mental Health Exam

  • Medical Exam

  • Life History Questionnaire

Where to Find Forms:

  • Select any of the buttons on the write to access the corresponding forms.

  • Forms are included in Section 9: Required Forms and Letters of Application for Holy Orders in the COM Manual.

  • If you need additional forms for professional chaplaincy or other ministries, consult Sections 3.3 or 4.5, depending on your specific need.

How to Request Forms:

  • If you cannot locate the form you need, contact the Commission on Ministry for assistance. They can provide guidance and ensure you have the necessary paperwork. Contact them at COM@diowis.org

Meet the Team

  • Mother Pippa Lindwright

    President of Commission on Ministry

    Contact

  • The Rev. Matt Phillips

    COM Member

    Contact

  • Deacon Paul Aparacio

    COM Member

    Contact

  • The Rev. Mike McElwee

    COM Member

    Contact

  • Alice Brown

    COM Member

    Contact

  • Deacon Steve Russell

    COM Member

    CONTACT

  • Mary Thickens

    COM Member

    CONTACT

  • Ashley Humphrey

    COM Member

    CONTACT
  • Bexs Nelson

    Bexs Nelson

    COM Member

    Contact

More COM FAQs

  • Answer here. Outline the stages of discernment for ministry and what individuals can expect at each step.

  • Answer here. Explain the role of this committee in helping individuals discern their call to ministry.

  • Answer here. Provide a general timeline for discernment, candidacy, and ordination, including key milestones.

  • Answer here. Detail prerequisites such as education, theological training, and diocesan evaluations.

  • Answer here. Address concerns about funding and provide resources or contacts for financial assistance.

  • Answer here. Offer guidance on balancing life commitments with the discernment process.

  • Answer here. Clarify the distinctions and help individuals identify which path may align with their calling.

  • Provide information on processes for clergy previously ordained in other denominations.

  • Answer here. Reassure individuals that uncertainty is normal and offer guidance on taking first steps toward discernment.

  • Offer tips on selecting recommenders and what the Diocese expects in their letters.

  • Answer here. Describe the purpose and activities of this key step in the discernment process.

  • Answer here. Provide transparency about assessments and their role in the discernment process.

  • Answer here. Explain how the COM supports and guides individuals throughout their journey.

  • Answer here. Address questions about baptism and confirmation requirements for ministry candidates.

  • Answer here. Offer advice on spiritual practices, resources, or retreats to support discernment.