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Candidates' Panel Procedures

  • For the most part the Candidates' Panel acts in an advisory capacity.  However, its conclusions carry executive weight for training exceptions which require access to Central Church funds.
  • The cases which should be brought to the panel are contained in the Candidates' Panel and Research Degrees' Panel Booklet.
  • The dates for the meetings of the panel and the deadline for the paperwork are issued each year and are also posted on the Website.
  • When a DDO is aware that a candidate’s case needs to be reviewed by the panel, the pro-forma submission should be completed and sent to the Senior Selection Secretary.  This form can be downloaded from the Website. 
  • The DDO should raise references where necessary.  The paperwork is available on the website.  Please note that there is a different incumbent’s reference for those who are already ordained and are seeking a change of category.
  • Remember to clarify the question that you wish the panel to address and give reasons why the diocese is supporting the application or not.
  • Please alert candidates, or ministers from other churches, that they will be required to attend up to three interviews, anywhere in the UK, and that they will be reimbursed for travel expenses.  Candidates need to be informed that the interviews are important and will be rigorous and thorough.
  • The interviewers will report their findings to the panel which will reach a unanimous decision in their advice to the bishop.
  • After the panel meeting the Selection Secretary will write to the candidate’s bishop informing him of the panel’s advice.  Copies of that letter will be sent to the DDO and, where appropriate, to the college or course Principal.
  • The bishops are asked to send a copy of their letter to the candidate to the Selection Secretary to keep the Ministry Division file complete.