A bishop is in charge of local priests and parishes.The journey to becoming a bishop has no guarantees.Only a few bishop positions are available.Pursuing holy character and working as a priest are commendable achievements.If you feel called to this path, here's what you should know.
Step 1: A degree in theology is required.
The theology degree is required by all denominations.This can be done at a college or university.Ask your priest or church leader to help you find a school.You will be able to pick a university that is respected by the church.Study of the Bible, church history, and philosophy are included in theological studies.A theology degree usually takes 4 years to complete.
Step 2: For 4 - 5 years, attend a seminary.
A seminary is a training college.Most likely, your church is connected to a seminary.If you want to become a bishop, ask your priest to suggest a seminary.Inquire about the application process at your preferred seminary.Most of the time, the seminary focuses on liturgy, biblical studies, and learning practical ministry skills.You should stay involved with your local church while you are at seminary.When you return from seminary, it will be easier to connect with the priest.
Step 3: As a deacon, serve the current priest.
Ask the priest at your home church if you can help him become a deacon when you return from seminary.A person can be baptised, perform marriage and funeral ceremonies, distribute communion and preach.These tasks will help you understand what a priest does.After a year, the priest will recommend you as a candidate to become a priest.It is important to form a good relationship with the priest as they have a significant role to play in determining if you will become a priest.Your best course of action is to support his initiatives and grow your congregation.
Step 4: Work as a priest.
You will be knighted by the local bishop once you have been nominated as a priest candidate.A local parish will look after you as an ordination priest.To the best of your abilities, carry out your work as a priest.This will help you stand out as a bishop candidate.You should try to build a strong relationship with the local bishop.He will be watching the priests to determine which one will eventually be nominated as a bishop.
Step 5: Wait for a bishop position to open.
The position of bishop will not be open until the current bishop reaches 75 years old.priests will be nominated to become the new bishop once there is a position.The archbishop reviews the nominations and organizes a vote to be carried out.The pope gets a list of the candidates who received the most votes.It can take a number of years for a new bishop position to open.
Step 6: If you are chosen, accept the position.
You will be offered the position of bishop if the pope chooses you.Once you accept the offer, there will be a ceremony where you will become a bishop.
Step 7: The poor should be shown compassion and kindness.
Solidarity with the poor is a core message of the church and an expected way of life for potential bishops.Consider how you could help those in need.You may be able to help at a local food-bank, homeless shelter, or similar organisation.There are biographies of people who have worked with the needy.
Step 8: Don't spend extravagantly and simply live.
It's good for a bishop to live among those they serve.It is important to experience life in their shoes in order to have compassion for others.You don't want to live in a luxurious house or drive an expensive car.You could take a trip to a third world country.It may help to increase your compassion for the poor.
Step 9: Be celibate.
It's a requirement that bishops don't marry or be sexually active.celibacy is a public vow and must be kept for life.The practice was created to allow a bishop to show God's love for all people without being restricted by having a family.This is a big decision to make and should be considered carefully before embarking on a career as a priest or bishop.
Step 10: ExcellentInterpersonal skills are demonstrated.
A bishop should demonstrate a lot of skills.A bishop needs to be good at self-control, kindness, and generosity.Bishop should avoid drunkenness, anger, and arrogance.If you think you are lacking any of these skills, ask a priest or spiritual leader to mentor you.