Eligibility and Admission
The theological program of Sophia Divinity School is designed for individuals seeking ordination for ministry within the Catholic Apostolic Church of Antioch or other Independent Catholic/Orthodox jurisdictions.
Candidates from jurisdictions other than the Catholic Apostolic Church of Antioch must have approval from the appropriate ecclesial authority in their jurisdiction.
Candidates are required to have a level of academic achievement and prior life experience which demonstrates potential for successful completion of a program of priestly formation and for ministry. Candidates study for a Bachelor’s or Master’s degree.
Clergy formation is supervised by the school in consultation with mentors assigned to the student. Students are also expected to develop their individualized Spiritual Formation Plan for submittal and approval by Sophia Divinity School. It is expected that seminarians preparing for the priesthood display and exhibit those qualities expected of a priest.
Respect, compassion, availability, and love for the Divine as well as for our brothers and sisters, are qualities which will be nurtured and strengthened during the seminary experience.
How to Apply
- Use the 'Contact Us Button' to begin your inquiry
- Complete the Application Form and provide Application Fees
- Provide a Personal inventory: An essay of no more than 5 pages sharing your plans for a future sacramental ministry (whether that be lay or ordained.)
- A scheduled virtual meeting setup with the Dean and Associate Dean
- Provide Academic Transcripts (Request for transfer credits must be submitted to the Dean of Sophia Divinity School)
- Federal Background Check (fingerprint) Report, if available, completed through My FBI Report, www.myfbireport.com (People in countries outside the USA will need to make other arrangements.)
- We also require a psychological screening, for which you will need to follow the enclosed instructions.
Important Notice
The priesthood in the Catholic Apostolic Church of Antioch is open to all regardless of race, ethnicity, age, gender, marital status, sexual orientation, or disability. Candidates should know that clergy are responsible for the fiscal support of their own ministries. The Catholic Apostolic Church of Antioch does not provide salaries or stipends for clergy.
While Sophia Divinity School prepares candidates spiritually and academically for ordination, candidates should also know that the final decision concerning their suitability for ordination lies with the Dean and Rector of Sophia Divinity School.