Ukrainian Orthodoxy Orthodoxie ukrainienne

Becoming a Priest in the Ukrainian Orthodox Church

Question: 

How can I become a priest in the Ukrainian Orthodox Church?

Answer:  

Very Rev. Ihor Kutash kutash@unicorne.org 

First you must search your heart and ask if that is what you are called to do. There are many ways to serve the Lord - as many as there are people. It is not an easy matter to be a priest. Some people look at the honours that are sometimes sent our way and overlook the thorny and lonely path that must often be walked. But Jesus walks with us - and if He calls you, then you truly ought to respond.

You should then go and talk to your Pastor about it. He would have to write you a recommendation/reference to St. Andrew's College - or some other Orthodox seminary - at any rate. It is not a good thing to pass over him. Then you must complete your course of studies and your personal formation in such a way that the administration of the seminary will recommend you for ordination. You would have had plenty of time to check out the authenticity of your calling and will have met with your Bishop. He would have to approve your ordination - as would the Consistory, the body of 18 people (half lay, half clergy) that is elected every 5 years at the Sobor.

You would have to submit your application in order for that to happen.

If all goes as it should you will then be ordained. If you are, be sure that that is indeed God's will for you and do your best humbly and honestly to fulfil your calling.

And God will bless you richly and you will do a lot of good in the world.