Application Process

If you are interested in becoming a Lay Ecclesial Minister, please fill out the Preliminary Information Form and email to our office to set up an initial interview with the Director of Lay Ecclesial Ministry.  Following that interview, one may enter the application process.  The application process includes the materials listed below:

What materials are required for application to the process?

• Application Procedure:  Lists all of the necessary documents with directions for essays.
• Application Form
• Letter of Reference/Endorsement from the Pastor
• Three Personal References
• One Business/Ministerial Reference
• Letter of Support from your Spouse or Religious Community (if applicable)
• Current Sacramental Records
• Educational Transcripts
• Vision of Ministry Essay (1-3 pages):  directions given in the Application Procedure 
• Faith Life Autobiography (3-5 pages):  directions given in the Application Procedure 
• Protecting God’s Children (Virtus) Compliance
• $75 Application Fee:  Check made payable to:  Catholic Diocese of Cleveland

Following the completion of all application materials, the applicant is interviewed by the Lay Ecclesial Ministry Office Advisory Board. This interview provides the Lay Ecclesial Ministry Office staff with additional discernment regarding the applicant’s readiness for acceptance into the process.  With approval from the Advisory Board, candidates are then informed of their acceptance. Orientation to the process takes place during the summer. Formation begins at the start of the academic year each fall.