Discernment
Postulant Phase
Initial discernment, prayer, orientation, and evaluation before formal admission to the Minor Seminary.
The Minor Orders Pathway is intended for seminarians whose vocation is directed toward permanent service in the Minor Orders or the Sub-Diaconate rather than progression to the Diaconate and Presbyterate. It provides the same foundational formation through the Minor Seminary and ordination as Porter, followed by a focused selection of Major Seminary courses appropriate to these ministries.
A distinct formation track. Courses in Levels M1–M4 are the same courses taught in the Major Seminary and retain their normal academic standards, but this focused pathway does not constitute completion of the entire Licentiate of Sacred Theology programme. Progression and ordination remain subject to demonstrated competence, vocational suitability, examination, and the judgment of ecclesiastical authority.
Academic phaseClerical milestone
Admission
Minor Seminary
The admitted seminarian begins structured academic and spiritual formation.
Minor Seminary · Level 1
Foundations of Faith and Worship
In-depth study of the Catechism and an introduction to the Divine Liturgy.
Minor Seminary · Level 2
Scripture and Church History
Introduction to Biblical Studies and the history and living continuity of the Church.
Clerical Milestone
First Tonsure
Reception into the clerical state following successful completion of the required formation and examination.
Minor Seminary · Level 3
Practical Liturgical Formation
Introduction to liturgy, altar service, sacred vessels, vesture, ceremonial movement, and proper liturgical etiquette.
Minor Order
Porter
The first step in the sacred Minor Orders and a deeper responsibility in the worship and life of the Church.
Minor Orders Pathway · Level M1
Scriptural Foundations
- OT101 · General Survey of Old Testament Literature
- NT101 · General Survey of New Testament Literature
Minor Order
Lector
Ordination may follow successful completion of Level M1 and all applicable formation, competency, and ecclesiastical requirements.
Minor Orders Pathway · Level M2
Life and History of the Church
- CH101 · A General Survey of Church History
Minor Order
Exorcist
Ordination may follow successful completion of Level M2 and all applicable formation, competency, and ecclesiastical requirements.
Minor Orders Pathway · Level M3
Early Church and Pastoral Formation
- CH301 · The Early Church
- PT101 · Pastoral Theology
Minor Order
Acolyte
Ordination may follow successful completion of Level M3 and all applicable formation, competency, and ecclesiastical requirements.
Minor Orders Pathway · Level M4
Creeds and Liturgical Principles
- ST101 · The Creeds
- LT101 · Principles of Liturgy
Required practical demonstration before ordination
- Proper chant of the Epistles or Lessons at the Divine Liturgy.
- Duties of the Sub-Deacon at the Divine Liturgy according to the applicable Rite.
Major Order
Sub-Deacon
Ordination may follow successful completion of Level M4, demonstration of the prescribed liturgical competencies, and final ecclesiastical approval.