People join us for many reasons. They may be involved with ministry and seeking recognition with ordination. They may already be ordained but wish to also be part of our fellowship, with opportunities for training, retreats and connection. They may be lay persons, looking for opportunities to develop in ministry and service. Whatever the reason, we are glad to welcome you to the Order - and we don’t require you to leave your own church or denomination to do so. In fact, we encourage all members to remain in relationship and fellowship with their local church.
Friends of OSL are not necessarily in ministry, but nonetheless wish to support the vision of the Order - whether practically, prayerfully or financially. Friends are kept up to date with OSL activities and events, and invited to participate in open events.
BECOMING A FRIEND: A one-off donation is invited and a lapel badge is issued. Friends often establish regular donations (in any amount of their choosing, although not obligatory) to support the work of the Order.
Brothers and Sisters, Ministering Brothers and Sisters, and Chaplains are not ordained - but recognised for their ministry work and service. Opportunities for participation and training are available.
FEES: On acceptance for accreditation, a fee of £120 is payable to cover certificate, lapel badge and a ceremony can be attended. An annual fee of £120 is then payable for subsequent years to maintain accreditation.
Please note that accreditations within this category are not ordained. There is no entitlement to use clerical titles (such as reverend) nor to wear clerical attire.
Means-based reductions or waiving of fees may be possible.
OSL ordains Deacons and Presbyters, according to a person’s theological education and experience. All applications are considered on individual merit, providing a vocational route to ordination.
FEES: On acceptance for Ordination, a fee of £240 is payable to cover administration, interviews and Ordination ceremony, certificate and lapel badge. Annual relicensing is required (for continuing credentials) at £240 per annum.
Means-based reductions or waiving of fees may be possible.
Individuals ordained via other denominations or streams may have their credentials formally recognised by OSL.
FEES: On acceptance of recognition a fee of £120 is payable. A continuing recognition fee of £120 per annum is paid for subsequent years.
Companions are those honoured for their ministry work by OSL and are made by invitation only.
Companions incur no fees, but are honoured with a service of recognition, a companion medal and certificate.
Appointments to the House of Bishops and Chapter of Canons are by appointment and invitation only.
Bishops and Canons (including Emeritus awardees) incur no fees.
OSL provides an alternative route to accreditation or ordination however it is no less rigorous than more traditional routes. Applicants are advised to complete applications fully, and the administration team are happy to offer advice on completion if needed. Timescales vary for completion of the process - average timescales are expected to be between 3 and 6 months, dependent on complexity, referee response time, and interview arrangements. OSL is managed and administered solely by volunteers - we appreciate your patience and consideration of the Order’s stewardship. No fee is payable on application - such is only requested on acceptance, and applicants should be aware that annual re-accreditation is required.
Step 1. An application form will be provided and all information must be completed. If an application is incomplete it cannot proceed - the administration team will advise if more information is required.
Step 2. References will be taken up. Reference information will be provided with the application form.
Step 3. Documents may be requested (e.g. academic or training certificates, or supporting evidence)
Step 4. Once all above are completed, the application is referred to the panel. At this point the panel may request further information, decline the application (where possible the panel will offer guidance on reapplication - for example, additional training or experience that may support a later reapplication), or invite the applicant to attend interview.
Step 5.
If invited for interview, this will be with two Canons of the interview panel. Outcomes are not advised within the interview itself, to provide appropriate consideration.
Step 6.
The applicant will receive an update from the OSL administration team advising of outcome and any next steps, as relevant.
In the event that an application does not proceed to accreditation or ordination, a further application (with new/additional supporting information) may be resubmitted after a minimum of three months. Further application possibilities will be advised as appropriate.
Find out more and visit some of our member churches.
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Order of St Leonard