Ordination and Application
IRCC Requirements for Ordination and Incardination into Holy Orders.
Talk with your IRCC Priest or Bishop Those seeking to become deacons, or priests within the Independent Reformed Catholic Church must satisfy the ordaining or receiving bishop of their suitability and readiness for ministry before entering training.
All Ordination applicants must be of the age of twenty one (21) years or older. They must pledge in all truthfulness that Jesus Christ is their Lord and Savior and that they are called of God to be a priest/deacon. While there are normal and usual requirements, any or all of them may be waived at the discretion of the bishop in union with the Archiepicopal Primus. The bishop in turn must consider the guidance and opinions of the other bishops and the church as a whole.
Bishops are admonished to exercise care in discerning the suitability and readiness of applicants for ordination. All too often, ill-prepared candidates to independent churches have been accepted for Holy Orders and become ineffective (and in some cases counterproductive and downright scandalous) clergy.
At the same time, we do not want our bishops to be bound by legalism. Requiring many years of seminary training has not prevented mainstream churches from being saddled with lazy priests, poor homilists, ambitious power hungry bishops and child molesters among their clergy.
You must be Christian: You must be Christian first and foremost, we expect clergy (like the Apostles), eloquence need not apply. We expect our clergy not only to believe in Jesus as the living Son of God, but also to have acted upon that belief by giving their lives to Christ. That means a conscious effort to walk in the footsteps of Jesus, adopting His attitudes and (inasmuch as possible) following His example. All of us fall unintentionally into sin occasionally, but those who are habitual, unrepentant, public sinners are not suited for ordination. Nor are those who practice lewdness, homosexuality, pornography, polygamy etc., or who support beliefs that are contrary to acceptable and established true Christianity.
This in turn requires that one be as familiar as possible with the One we are to emulate. That One being Christ. This requires familiarity with the Scriptures, especially the Gospels. Applicants should have gone beyond just reading the Gospels to a deep and prayerful study of them, absorbing the words of Christ and reflecting on their application to our lives and the lives of those to whom we minister. Whether this was done in a seminary is not the issue, what is important is that our clergy have an insight into the mind of God through familiarity with the words and actions of Jesus.
You must be catholic (meaning "universal") Secondly, since we are a catholic church, applicants should be "catholic" Christians. That means that in addition to the common Christian beliefs contained in (for example) the Nicene Creed, applicants should have an appreciation for the Apostolic Succession, should believe that the seven sacraments are a means used by God to impart grace, and should believe in the Real Presence of Christ in the Eucharist. (Note that this does NOT require acceptance of the legalistic formulations in the relatively recent Roman Catholic doctrine of trans-substantiation.) Since one of the primary duties of clergy is the administration of the sacraments, there's no sense becoming a priest if one does not believe that sacraments can really "do" anything.
Likewise, why become a priest if one believes that it does not make any difference and that it does not empower one to make Christ present for His people at the Mass? Likewise, it would be hypocritical to seek the sacrament of Holy Orders if one believes that.
You must be called. The third requirement is that this catholic Christian person has received and accepted a call to the ordained ministry. There are many wonderful ways for Christians to serve God's people in "un ordained ministry." This includes teaching, volunteering a soup kitchens, counseling, even preaching. While opportunities for preaching are greatly expanded by ordination, they exist for others as well. A desire to preach, by itself, should not be considered a good reason for ordination beyond the Diaconate.
The office of deacon is valued highly in the church. It predates the Christian priesthood and should in no way be considered subordinate or inferior, they are just different. Those who feel they are being called to ministry must at some point decide if they are being called to ministry as a priest, a deacon, or a layperson. Just because some churches require you to be a priest in order to do almost anything in the church doesn't mean we have to follow that same practice ... and we don't. Being a counselor, for example, requires lots of education, training, and experience, but it doesn't require Holy Orders.
The call to ordained ministry as a priest or bishop is essentially a call to administer the sacraments and to evangelize. "Go therefore and make disciples of those in all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit." Unless one has a desire to celebrate Mass for God's people, they should not seek the priesthood.
You must be trained. The 4th requirement is sufficient training so that the candidate is equipped to properly, reverently, and inspirationally celebrate Mass, perform weddings and funerals, deliver outstanding homilies, administer the sacraments and even to offer extracurricular ecclesiastical service such as simple counseling.
This is the one requirement that cannot be properly done by correspondence. The candidate must convince Archdiocese and his bishop, usually by demonstration, that he is ready to perform these duties. This requirement can be at least partially fulfilled by submitting a videotape of the candidate preaching a couple of homilies and performing various liturgical functions. We put more emphasis on preaching or homiletics than is usually the case in other churches. The focus of the Mass is the altar, not the pulpit. It is on Jesus, not the celebrant. We owe our people accomplished and powerful preachers.
Candidates for the priesthood must have their own Sacramentary and Lectionary, and must know how to use them. We suggest that candidates for the priesthood do some private "practice Masses" to become familiar with the rubrics, the page-turning, and the flow of the Mass. They should be ready to celebrate their first public Mass immediately following ordination.
These then are the basic four requirements for clergy in the IRCC:
I will insert here a word of warning to prospectus Aspirants: There have been times in the past when candidates (Aspirants) have been so eager to go forward and to serve God that they begin to try to take on extracurricular duties such as out-reach programs, doing unauthorized counseling, or other out of the ordinary service functions during their training.
Listen closely!
Until your training is complete and you are given authority to do so; this is NOT allowed. you are untrained, you would be trying to teach what you do not understand.
IRCC has been training clergy for many years, give your attention to the designed study courses and let your Bishop decide when you are ready to move forward. Such things are viewed very negatively by Archdiocese as counter productive during training. You have been assigned a Mentoring Bishop, allow him to guide you DO NOT TRY TO TEACH THE TEACHER!!!
Where are Ordinations done? We generally prefer that ordinations take place with the worshipping community of the candidate. As in the early church, we see a community putting forward candidates to minister amongst them. The clergy come from the people; they are not chosen by the hierarchy and imposed upon a local congregation. In a real sense, it is the people who ordain. The bishop merely ratifies their choice, recommends elvation to Archdiocese and administers the sacrament.
There are cases, however, where the candidate has no worshipping community, but will be building one from scratch after ordination, perhaps in a new location (like a missionary would). In such cases, ordination can take place at a suitable location chosen by the bishop. The candidate (or candidates) for ordination are encouraged to bring friends and family to support them.
When? Most ordinations (like weddings) are performed on Sabbath (Saturday), (and for most of the same reasons). Many are performed Sunday morning at the principal Mass of the host parish. It's up to the host parish and the ordaining bishop.
What? The candidate must have certain items - some of which are needed in the ordination ceremony and others which are needed for their continuing ministry. Ask the ordaining priest or bishop for more information.
Requirements of Licensed Ministers. A licensed minister is one who is involved in part-time ministry, whose ministerial calling and gifts have been formally recognized by the board of the IRCC, and who may not meet the requirements for ordination. The ministerial license may be used as a step to being ordained as a priest within the IRCC.
Requirements:
Please contact the IRCC for more information.
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
IRCC Requirements for Ordination and Incardination into Holy Orders.
Talk with your IRCC Priest or Bishop Those seeking to become deacons, or priests within the Independent Reformed Catholic Church must satisfy the ordaining or receiving bishop of their suitability and readiness for ministry before entering training.
All Ordination applicants must be of the age of twenty one (21) years or older. They must pledge in all truthfulness that Jesus Christ is their Lord and Savior and that they are called of God to be a priest/deacon. While there are normal and usual requirements, any or all of them may be waived at the discretion of the bishop in union with the Archiepicopal Primus. The bishop in turn must consider the guidance and opinions of the other bishops and the church as a whole.
Bishops are admonished to exercise care in discerning the suitability and readiness of applicants for ordination. All too often, ill-prepared candidates to independent churches have been accepted for Holy Orders and become ineffective (and in some cases counterproductive and downright scandalous) clergy.
At the same time, we do not want our bishops to be bound by legalism. Requiring many years of seminary training has not prevented mainstream churches from being saddled with lazy priests, poor homilists, ambitious power hungry bishops and child molesters among their clergy.
You must be Christian: You must be Christian first and foremost, we expect clergy (like the Apostles), eloquence need not apply. We expect our clergy not only to believe in Jesus as the living Son of God, but also to have acted upon that belief by giving their lives to Christ. That means a conscious effort to walk in the footsteps of Jesus, adopting His attitudes and (inasmuch as possible) following His example. All of us fall unintentionally into sin occasionally, but those who are habitual, unrepentant, public sinners are not suited for ordination. Nor are those who practice lewdness, homosexuality, pornography, polygamy etc., or who support beliefs that are contrary to acceptable and established true Christianity.
This in turn requires that one be as familiar as possible with the One we are to emulate. That One being Christ. This requires familiarity with the Scriptures, especially the Gospels. Applicants should have gone beyond just reading the Gospels to a deep and prayerful study of them, absorbing the words of Christ and reflecting on their application to our lives and the lives of those to whom we minister. Whether this was done in a seminary is not the issue, what is important is that our clergy have an insight into the mind of God through familiarity with the words and actions of Jesus.
You must be catholic (meaning "universal") Secondly, since we are a catholic church, applicants should be "catholic" Christians. That means that in addition to the common Christian beliefs contained in (for example) the Nicene Creed, applicants should have an appreciation for the Apostolic Succession, should believe that the seven sacraments are a means used by God to impart grace, and should believe in the Real Presence of Christ in the Eucharist. (Note that this does NOT require acceptance of the legalistic formulations in the relatively recent Roman Catholic doctrine of trans-substantiation.) Since one of the primary duties of clergy is the administration of the sacraments, there's no sense becoming a priest if one does not believe that sacraments can really "do" anything.
Likewise, why become a priest if one believes that it does not make any difference and that it does not empower one to make Christ present for His people at the Mass? Likewise, it would be hypocritical to seek the sacrament of Holy Orders if one believes that.
You must be called. The third requirement is that this catholic Christian person has received and accepted a call to the ordained ministry. There are many wonderful ways for Christians to serve God's people in "un ordained ministry." This includes teaching, volunteering a soup kitchens, counseling, even preaching. While opportunities for preaching are greatly expanded by ordination, they exist for others as well. A desire to preach, by itself, should not be considered a good reason for ordination beyond the Diaconate.
The office of deacon is valued highly in the church. It predates the Christian priesthood and should in no way be considered subordinate or inferior, they are just different. Those who feel they are being called to ministry must at some point decide if they are being called to ministry as a priest, a deacon, or a layperson. Just because some churches require you to be a priest in order to do almost anything in the church doesn't mean we have to follow that same practice ... and we don't. Being a counselor, for example, requires lots of education, training, and experience, but it doesn't require Holy Orders.
The call to ordained ministry as a priest or bishop is essentially a call to administer the sacraments and to evangelize. "Go therefore and make disciples of those in all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father and of the Son and of the Holy Spirit." Unless one has a desire to celebrate Mass for God's people, they should not seek the priesthood.
You must be trained. The 4th requirement is sufficient training so that the candidate is equipped to properly, reverently, and inspirationally celebrate Mass, perform weddings and funerals, deliver outstanding homilies, administer the sacraments and even to offer extracurricular ecclesiastical service such as simple counseling.
This is the one requirement that cannot be properly done by correspondence. The candidate must convince Archdiocese and his bishop, usually by demonstration, that he is ready to perform these duties. This requirement can be at least partially fulfilled by submitting a videotape of the candidate preaching a couple of homilies and performing various liturgical functions. We put more emphasis on preaching or homiletics than is usually the case in other churches. The focus of the Mass is the altar, not the pulpit. It is on Jesus, not the celebrant. We owe our people accomplished and powerful preachers.
Candidates for the priesthood must have their own Sacramentary and Lectionary, and must know how to use them. We suggest that candidates for the priesthood do some private "practice Masses" to become familiar with the rubrics, the page-turning, and the flow of the Mass. They should be ready to celebrate their first public Mass immediately following ordination.
These then are the basic four requirements for clergy in the IRCC:
- They must be Christians;
- They must be universally Christian;
- They must be called to the ordained ministry;
- They must be adequately trained for their duties in the church.
I will insert here a word of warning to prospectus Aspirants: There have been times in the past when candidates (Aspirants) have been so eager to go forward and to serve God that they begin to try to take on extracurricular duties such as out-reach programs, doing unauthorized counseling, or other out of the ordinary service functions during their training.
Listen closely!
Until your training is complete and you are given authority to do so; this is NOT allowed. you are untrained, you would be trying to teach what you do not understand.
IRCC has been training clergy for many years, give your attention to the designed study courses and let your Bishop decide when you are ready to move forward. Such things are viewed very negatively by Archdiocese as counter productive during training. You have been assigned a Mentoring Bishop, allow him to guide you DO NOT TRY TO TEACH THE TEACHER!!!
Where are Ordinations done? We generally prefer that ordinations take place with the worshipping community of the candidate. As in the early church, we see a community putting forward candidates to minister amongst them. The clergy come from the people; they are not chosen by the hierarchy and imposed upon a local congregation. In a real sense, it is the people who ordain. The bishop merely ratifies their choice, recommends elvation to Archdiocese and administers the sacrament.
There are cases, however, where the candidate has no worshipping community, but will be building one from scratch after ordination, perhaps in a new location (like a missionary would). In such cases, ordination can take place at a suitable location chosen by the bishop. The candidate (or candidates) for ordination are encouraged to bring friends and family to support them.
When? Most ordinations (like weddings) are performed on Sabbath (Saturday), (and for most of the same reasons). Many are performed Sunday morning at the principal Mass of the host parish. It's up to the host parish and the ordaining bishop.
What? The candidate must have certain items - some of which are needed in the ordination ceremony and others which are needed for their continuing ministry. Ask the ordaining priest or bishop for more information.
Requirements of Licensed Ministers. A licensed minister is one who is involved in part-time ministry, whose ministerial calling and gifts have been formally recognized by the board of the IRCC, and who may not meet the requirements for ordination. The ministerial license may be used as a step to being ordained as a priest within the IRCC.
Requirements:
- Must have a definite call to ministry as set forth by God in Ephesians 4:11,12 and be at least 21 years of age.
- Must be active in ministry on at least a part-time basis.
- Must return the completed application.
Please contact the IRCC for more information.
___________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
Application of Ordination Independent Reformed Catholic Church Please read the application fully and answer all questions. This application may be returned as an email attachment or through standard postal services. You may also cut and paste it into an email.
Those accepted for ordination will be received into Holy Orders by ecclesiastical ritual and laying on of hands. All questions must be answered in full and the applications returned as presented. Once received and approved a mandate will be sent. The application is lengthy and is designed so.
Application in Word 97 - 2003 format:
1 Full Name as written on your Birth Certificate (no initials) and date of birth
2 Full Residential Address including area codes (no P. O. Box)
3 Email Address
4 Telephone Number (including any area codes) and Mobile Telephone number
5 Is your gender Male or Female? We do not accept females into the Priesthood but welcome them into the Deaconry.
6 Marital Status? We do not discriminate against those who are divorced. However each application is a case by case process and divorced applicants will be thoroughly interviewed.
7 Full Name of Spouse
8 Name, address, and denomination of the church you now attend. Name and telephone number of your pastor.
9 Where and how did you hear of the Independent Reformed Catholic Church?
10 What do you know about the IRCC?
11 If you are considered and ordained into the IRCC, will you abide by all the Codes of Practice of IRCC as well as IRCC Canon Law and will you complete all that is required of you? Please answer yes or no.
12 Why do you want to become Ordained to the Priesthood or enter the Deaconry with the IRCC? Please explain.
13 Your Spiritual journey to date (minimum 200 words)?
14 Have you read and do you accept the Statement of Faith, as displayed in the IRCC site? Please answer I have and I do.
15 You are required to make weekly contacts your mentor/bishop if accepted for ordination. We require all clergy to install the Skype system on their computers for training and conference reasons. Do you agree to that?
16 You need to send us by e-mail or mail a recent facial photograph for your portfolio, pass port types are ideal. Please indicate whether one is attached.
17 You need to provide us with the names and address (e-mail preferred) and telephone numbers of three references who will support your application to become Ordained to the Priesthood. Independent Referees must not be a Relative or a Spouse.
18 We do not charge for ordination, ordination is through God. There may however be on occasion a charge made to cover traveling expenses and to cover materials. This will be discussed on a case by case basis. Do you accept this?
19 Do you understand that IRCC operates under Paul’s tent maker policy, and those who are Ordained to the Priesthood with IRCC receive no remuneration for their time or expenses in carrying out any duties as an Ordained Priest, none of our clergy are paid, we work for God not a pay check.
20 Do you understand that an application places no obligation on IRCC to Ordain you to the Priesthood ?
21 If you are ordained, you will be given a specific role within the IRCC structure, you are expected to fulfill your assignments and be in ecclesiastic obedience to your Bishop. Further you are expected to positively promote the IRCC . Do you accept this?
22 All new ordinants for priesthood must be directed to a Presiding Bishop; all aspirants to the Bishopric must be directed to the Presiding Bishop Primus.
23 All those wishing to be incardinated must follow the same procedure as above with certain exceptions.
24 All Ordinands May be expected to undergo a CRB check or other police background Checks. Do you accept this?
Failure to answer any or all of the questions may delay your application being processed. The Application process is non-negotiable but you may ask as many questions as you wish.
Agreement of Participation as Clergy of the IRCC
1
REQUIREMENTS AND LIMITATIONS OF INCARDENATION AND ACCEPTANCE INTO IRCC CLERICAL TRAINING : I attest that I am at least eighteen (18) years of age or older, of good Christian character having repented of my sins and accept Jesus solely as my Lord and Savior. I attest that I am called of God to be a Christian Minister and agree to uphold sound Biblical principles, and agree that I will uphold the ministerial code of ethics, training agreement, Holy Vows and Canons of the IRCC and agree that I am in harmony with the teachings, practices, and beliefs as a member or prospectus member of the IRCC.
2.
I understand and agree to complete with passing grades any current or future educational studies or IRCC certifications within the allotted time of such courses.
3.
I understand and agree that IRCC ordination is not offered to those who are currently incarcerated, on probation, parole, or those who have in the past committed crimes that are morally shocking to society. Concealing such conditions will result in immediate discharge and separation.
4.
I understand and agree that IRCC ordination is not offered to those who unrepentantly or repeatedly teach or practice teach or practice lewdness, homosexuality, pornography, polygamy etc., or who support practices or beliefs which are illegal or contrary to established Christian standards or in violation to IRCC standards, tradition and Canon Law.
5.
I understand and agree that I will not use IRCC issued credentials for novelty reasons, or for a one-time event such as to solemnize the marriage of a family member or friend.
6.
I understand and agree that IRCC licensed ministers ordained priest or any other positions of a clerical nature are prohibited from officiating same sex marriages, illegal marriages, or marriages where the officiate may have an obvious ethical or professional conflict of interest.
7.
I understand and agree that IRCC ordination is not offered to "Marriage Ministries" that do not offer competent pre-marriage Christian counseling.
8.
I understand and agree that I will in no manner claim to represent the Independent Reformed Catholic Church or any of its ministries without prior written approval of the IRCC Archdiocese. I further understand claiming representation after separation will be legally remedied to the full extent of the secular and ecclesiastical legal system.
9.
LEADERSHIP: I will not publicly make comments that are defamatory, derogatory or false about other brothers and sisters in Christ, Christian Ministries or the IRCC - its leadership or any members.
10.
Separation: I understand there is a standard one year probationary period after ordination or consecration in which time ordination regardless of position can be invalidated without the benefit of ecclesiastical hearing and with no right of appeal for violation of IRCC standards, Canon or other notable reasons of misconduct or violation of vows.
11.
FALSIFYING INFORMATION: I understand and agree that the IRCC may seek legal remedies as authorized by a consensus of the IRCC Synod or office of the Primus for persons acting outside the "brotherhood" scope of 1Cor. 6:, who obtain membership or credentials under falsehood, unauthorized possession of proprietary IRCC information including documents,email addresses, passwords and user names of IRCC members.
12.
ACTIVE: I agree and understand that I am required to stay in contact with my assigned IRCC mentor in keeping with the time frame ad frequency I am assigned. I understand repeated offense will be grounds for termination and laicization and that my membership and any issued credentials may be canceled because of inactivity. Further, if for some legitimate reason I cannot keep assigned meetings and contact with my mentor I shall contact Archdiocese and ask for a waiver for this provision.
13.
INDEPENDENT AND ACCOUNTABLE: The status of all licensed ministers and ordained priests recognized by the IRCC is to remain a sovereign Independent Minister, Church, or Ministry morally bound to the Independent Reformed Catholic Church and voluntarily agree to be held accountable to appointed Senior clergy of the IRCC as well as bound by tradition, Canon and by-laws of the same.
14
CONTACT: I understand and agree to maintain method of contact and communication to receive contact from the IRCC leadership by email, letters, fax, or telephone contacts.
15.
PROFILE RECORD: I understand and agree that I am required to update my ministry profile record to reflect current changes in residency including phone numbers, email address, or major changes in my statement of beliefs. I understand and agree that my membership and credentials may be revoked if I should in any way edit my IRCC profile information in order to hide my identity, age, contact information, or beliefs.
16.
CANCELLATION: I understand and agree that either the IRCC or I may cancel my membership or credentials at any time by sending an official email or registered letter. I agree to immediately stop using any issued credentials and surrender issued credentials by return mail to the IRCC upon separation.
17.
NON CONTRACTUAL: I understand and agree that the issuance of ordination credentials does not constitute a contract or employment, nor have I been promised or guaranteed that issued credentials will be accepted or honored by outside entities.
18.
LEGAL ~ ETHICAL OPERATION: I understand and agree to conduct myself in a moral, ethical, and lawful manner, knowing that it is my full legal responsibility to know and follow the laws governing my ordination, ministry, and actions.
19.
RIGHT TO SANCTION: I understand and agree that ordination credentials are intended for life; however, at the sole discretion of the IRCC, any issued credentials, positions, titles, assignments or membership association may be sanctioned for reasons including but not limited to: my conduct, behavior, activity, actions or teachings that are contrary to Christian principles and practices. Although it is the general practice to afford the benefit of Ecclesiastical Court it is NOT a necessity to dissolve the clerical relationship or to dismiss, sanction, demote or defrock erring clergy.
20.
OTHER CREDENTIALS: I understand and agree that I am required to fully report and disclose to the IRCC administration any credentials or associations which I currently hold by religious or other organizations which support mixed religious beliefs including but not limited to (U.L.C., Wicca, Satanism, Psychic, Tarot reading, Mormonism, Masons, Jehovah Witness, Occult, New Age, Unitarian, Universal-ism, Witchcraft, hate or racial biased organizations, or any other organizations which are not in harmony with the IRCC statement of faith and membership guidelines, etc.).
21.
HOLD HARMLESS: I understand and agree to hold the Independent Reformed Catholic Church, IRCC International Network and all IRCC Ministries, their leadership, officers, agents, and the membership harmless in all matters including but not limited to my operation, actions, practices, beliefs, counseling, disclosures, usage, or associations whether this be by omission, willfulness, or by negligence.
22.
CANON AND PROCEDURAL REVISIONS: I understand and agree that the terms and conditions of ordination may be revised at the sole discretion of the IRCC. I understand and agree to abide by the current and future revisions of these terms and conditions, and I further agree that it is my full responsibility to know and keep up with any future revisions.
23.
RESPONSIBILITY: I understand and agree that IRCC authority may attempt to contact me regarding changes to my membership or credentials; however, the IRCC has no obligation to contact me regarding my standing, sanctions, or status of issued credentials, and I agree that it is my sole responsibility to check or inquire of my status if that becomes a necessity.
24.
LICENSE RENEWALS: I understand and agree that if I am a licensed agent or minister with the IRCC I must renew my "Letter of Good Standing" and "ministry I.D. Card" every year. Licensed credentials automatically expire on their licensing date.
25.
RECOGNITION: I understand and agree to recognize the educational achievements, awards, and credentials issued by the IRCC.
26.
GIVING - AN ACT OF WORSHIP: I understand and agree that when I give to the IRCC I will not claim these gifts as a return on my investment in the form of a tax deduction. I agree to cheerfully give based upon the worthiness and fruits of the receiver as an act of Worship to God
27.
OBEDIENCE, CHASITY AND POVERTY -I agree to adhere to the three Holy Vows as lay-down in the Holy Vows within the explanatory scope of the IRCC.
28.
AGREEMENT:
I understand and agree to the above terms and conditions of ordination and affiliation and agree to abide by all the terms set forth as a spiritual covenant between God, myself, and the IRCC.
Please contact the IRCC for more information.
Those accepted for ordination will be received into Holy Orders by ecclesiastical ritual and laying on of hands. All questions must be answered in full and the applications returned as presented. Once received and approved a mandate will be sent. The application is lengthy and is designed so.
Application in Word 97 - 2003 format:
1 Full Name as written on your Birth Certificate (no initials) and date of birth
2 Full Residential Address including area codes (no P. O. Box)
3 Email Address
4 Telephone Number (including any area codes) and Mobile Telephone number
5 Is your gender Male or Female? We do not accept females into the Priesthood but welcome them into the Deaconry.
6 Marital Status? We do not discriminate against those who are divorced. However each application is a case by case process and divorced applicants will be thoroughly interviewed.
7 Full Name of Spouse
8 Name, address, and denomination of the church you now attend. Name and telephone number of your pastor.
9 Where and how did you hear of the Independent Reformed Catholic Church?
10 What do you know about the IRCC?
11 If you are considered and ordained into the IRCC, will you abide by all the Codes of Practice of IRCC as well as IRCC Canon Law and will you complete all that is required of you? Please answer yes or no.
12 Why do you want to become Ordained to the Priesthood or enter the Deaconry with the IRCC? Please explain.
13 Your Spiritual journey to date (minimum 200 words)?
14 Have you read and do you accept the Statement of Faith, as displayed in the IRCC site? Please answer I have and I do.
15 You are required to make weekly contacts your mentor/bishop if accepted for ordination. We require all clergy to install the Skype system on their computers for training and conference reasons. Do you agree to that?
16 You need to send us by e-mail or mail a recent facial photograph for your portfolio, pass port types are ideal. Please indicate whether one is attached.
17 You need to provide us with the names and address (e-mail preferred) and telephone numbers of three references who will support your application to become Ordained to the Priesthood. Independent Referees must not be a Relative or a Spouse.
18 We do not charge for ordination, ordination is through God. There may however be on occasion a charge made to cover traveling expenses and to cover materials. This will be discussed on a case by case basis. Do you accept this?
19 Do you understand that IRCC operates under Paul’s tent maker policy, and those who are Ordained to the Priesthood with IRCC receive no remuneration for their time or expenses in carrying out any duties as an Ordained Priest, none of our clergy are paid, we work for God not a pay check.
20 Do you understand that an application places no obligation on IRCC to Ordain you to the Priesthood ?
21 If you are ordained, you will be given a specific role within the IRCC structure, you are expected to fulfill your assignments and be in ecclesiastic obedience to your Bishop. Further you are expected to positively promote the IRCC . Do you accept this?
22 All new ordinants for priesthood must be directed to a Presiding Bishop; all aspirants to the Bishopric must be directed to the Presiding Bishop Primus.
23 All those wishing to be incardinated must follow the same procedure as above with certain exceptions.
24 All Ordinands May be expected to undergo a CRB check or other police background Checks. Do you accept this?
Failure to answer any or all of the questions may delay your application being processed. The Application process is non-negotiable but you may ask as many questions as you wish.
Agreement of Participation as Clergy of the IRCC
1
REQUIREMENTS AND LIMITATIONS OF INCARDENATION AND ACCEPTANCE INTO IRCC CLERICAL TRAINING : I attest that I am at least eighteen (18) years of age or older, of good Christian character having repented of my sins and accept Jesus solely as my Lord and Savior. I attest that I am called of God to be a Christian Minister and agree to uphold sound Biblical principles, and agree that I will uphold the ministerial code of ethics, training agreement, Holy Vows and Canons of the IRCC and agree that I am in harmony with the teachings, practices, and beliefs as a member or prospectus member of the IRCC.
2.
I understand and agree to complete with passing grades any current or future educational studies or IRCC certifications within the allotted time of such courses.
3.
I understand and agree that IRCC ordination is not offered to those who are currently incarcerated, on probation, parole, or those who have in the past committed crimes that are morally shocking to society. Concealing such conditions will result in immediate discharge and separation.
4.
I understand and agree that IRCC ordination is not offered to those who unrepentantly or repeatedly teach or practice teach or practice lewdness, homosexuality, pornography, polygamy etc., or who support practices or beliefs which are illegal or contrary to established Christian standards or in violation to IRCC standards, tradition and Canon Law.
5.
I understand and agree that I will not use IRCC issued credentials for novelty reasons, or for a one-time event such as to solemnize the marriage of a family member or friend.
6.
I understand and agree that IRCC licensed ministers ordained priest or any other positions of a clerical nature are prohibited from officiating same sex marriages, illegal marriages, or marriages where the officiate may have an obvious ethical or professional conflict of interest.
7.
I understand and agree that IRCC ordination is not offered to "Marriage Ministries" that do not offer competent pre-marriage Christian counseling.
8.
I understand and agree that I will in no manner claim to represent the Independent Reformed Catholic Church or any of its ministries without prior written approval of the IRCC Archdiocese. I further understand claiming representation after separation will be legally remedied to the full extent of the secular and ecclesiastical legal system.
9.
LEADERSHIP: I will not publicly make comments that are defamatory, derogatory or false about other brothers and sisters in Christ, Christian Ministries or the IRCC - its leadership or any members.
10.
Separation: I understand there is a standard one year probationary period after ordination or consecration in which time ordination regardless of position can be invalidated without the benefit of ecclesiastical hearing and with no right of appeal for violation of IRCC standards, Canon or other notable reasons of misconduct or violation of vows.
11.
FALSIFYING INFORMATION: I understand and agree that the IRCC may seek legal remedies as authorized by a consensus of the IRCC Synod or office of the Primus for persons acting outside the "brotherhood" scope of 1Cor. 6:, who obtain membership or credentials under falsehood, unauthorized possession of proprietary IRCC information including documents,email addresses, passwords and user names of IRCC members.
12.
ACTIVE: I agree and understand that I am required to stay in contact with my assigned IRCC mentor in keeping with the time frame ad frequency I am assigned. I understand repeated offense will be grounds for termination and laicization and that my membership and any issued credentials may be canceled because of inactivity. Further, if for some legitimate reason I cannot keep assigned meetings and contact with my mentor I shall contact Archdiocese and ask for a waiver for this provision.
13.
INDEPENDENT AND ACCOUNTABLE: The status of all licensed ministers and ordained priests recognized by the IRCC is to remain a sovereign Independent Minister, Church, or Ministry morally bound to the Independent Reformed Catholic Church and voluntarily agree to be held accountable to appointed Senior clergy of the IRCC as well as bound by tradition, Canon and by-laws of the same.
14
CONTACT: I understand and agree to maintain method of contact and communication to receive contact from the IRCC leadership by email, letters, fax, or telephone contacts.
15.
PROFILE RECORD: I understand and agree that I am required to update my ministry profile record to reflect current changes in residency including phone numbers, email address, or major changes in my statement of beliefs. I understand and agree that my membership and credentials may be revoked if I should in any way edit my IRCC profile information in order to hide my identity, age, contact information, or beliefs.
16.
CANCELLATION: I understand and agree that either the IRCC or I may cancel my membership or credentials at any time by sending an official email or registered letter. I agree to immediately stop using any issued credentials and surrender issued credentials by return mail to the IRCC upon separation.
17.
NON CONTRACTUAL: I understand and agree that the issuance of ordination credentials does not constitute a contract or employment, nor have I been promised or guaranteed that issued credentials will be accepted or honored by outside entities.
18.
LEGAL ~ ETHICAL OPERATION: I understand and agree to conduct myself in a moral, ethical, and lawful manner, knowing that it is my full legal responsibility to know and follow the laws governing my ordination, ministry, and actions.
19.
RIGHT TO SANCTION: I understand and agree that ordination credentials are intended for life; however, at the sole discretion of the IRCC, any issued credentials, positions, titles, assignments or membership association may be sanctioned for reasons including but not limited to: my conduct, behavior, activity, actions or teachings that are contrary to Christian principles and practices. Although it is the general practice to afford the benefit of Ecclesiastical Court it is NOT a necessity to dissolve the clerical relationship or to dismiss, sanction, demote or defrock erring clergy.
20.
OTHER CREDENTIALS: I understand and agree that I am required to fully report and disclose to the IRCC administration any credentials or associations which I currently hold by religious or other organizations which support mixed religious beliefs including but not limited to (U.L.C., Wicca, Satanism, Psychic, Tarot reading, Mormonism, Masons, Jehovah Witness, Occult, New Age, Unitarian, Universal-ism, Witchcraft, hate or racial biased organizations, or any other organizations which are not in harmony with the IRCC statement of faith and membership guidelines, etc.).
21.
HOLD HARMLESS: I understand and agree to hold the Independent Reformed Catholic Church, IRCC International Network and all IRCC Ministries, their leadership, officers, agents, and the membership harmless in all matters including but not limited to my operation, actions, practices, beliefs, counseling, disclosures, usage, or associations whether this be by omission, willfulness, or by negligence.
22.
CANON AND PROCEDURAL REVISIONS: I understand and agree that the terms and conditions of ordination may be revised at the sole discretion of the IRCC. I understand and agree to abide by the current and future revisions of these terms and conditions, and I further agree that it is my full responsibility to know and keep up with any future revisions.
23.
RESPONSIBILITY: I understand and agree that IRCC authority may attempt to contact me regarding changes to my membership or credentials; however, the IRCC has no obligation to contact me regarding my standing, sanctions, or status of issued credentials, and I agree that it is my sole responsibility to check or inquire of my status if that becomes a necessity.
24.
LICENSE RENEWALS: I understand and agree that if I am a licensed agent or minister with the IRCC I must renew my "Letter of Good Standing" and "ministry I.D. Card" every year. Licensed credentials automatically expire on their licensing date.
25.
RECOGNITION: I understand and agree to recognize the educational achievements, awards, and credentials issued by the IRCC.
26.
GIVING - AN ACT OF WORSHIP: I understand and agree that when I give to the IRCC I will not claim these gifts as a return on my investment in the form of a tax deduction. I agree to cheerfully give based upon the worthiness and fruits of the receiver as an act of Worship to God
27.
OBEDIENCE, CHASITY AND POVERTY -I agree to adhere to the three Holy Vows as lay-down in the Holy Vows within the explanatory scope of the IRCC.
28.
AGREEMENT:
I understand and agree to the above terms and conditions of ordination and affiliation and agree to abide by all the terms set forth as a spiritual covenant between God, myself, and the IRCC.
Please contact the IRCC for more information.