Certificate In Diaconal Formation
A Part-Time, Two-Year Certificate Program Intended to Prepare Men for the Holy Diaconate.
At A Glance
Formation for Service in the Holy Diaconate
St. Tikhon’s Seminary offers a Certificate in Diaconal Formation program in collaboration with St. Stephen’s Orthodox Cathedral in Philadelphia, PA and Holy Resurrection Orthodox Church in Wayne, NJ. This certificate program is designed to provide participants with structured theological education and liturgical formation geared towards service in the Holy Diaconate of the Orthodox Church. Each program cohort will meet on Saturdays over the course of two years, from September to May, at their respective churches. Saturday sessions will include the celebration of the Divine Liturgy, followed by a morning class session, lunch, an afternoon class session, and concluding with the celebration of Vespers or Vigil. This blending of liturgical celebration and classroom instruction provides a solid foundation in conceptual and practical competencies necessary for laymen who would like to pursue ordination to the Holy Diaconate.
The program is open to candidates from various Orthodox jurisdictions and dioceses who have an interest in serving the Church through the Diaconate. The ability for students to take part in a cohort that celebrates the services together, attends classes together, and spends time in fellowship is indispensable for the future ministry of those students in parishes of our church.
Diaconal Formation
Program Highlights
A structured weekend format allows participants to pursue theological education while remaining active in their families, parishes, and professions.
Two-Year Program
Complete a structured two-year course of study through weekly Saturday sessions held from September to May at St. Stephen's Cathedral in Philadelphia, PA, or at Holy Resurrection Orthodox Church in Wayne, NJ.
Integrated Formation
Each gathering combines the Divine Liturgy, classroom instruction, fellowship, and Vespers or Vigil, uniting theological study with the liturgical life of the Church.
Collaborative Learning
Participate in a cohort-based learning environment that encourages discussion, fellowship, and spiritual growth alongside others discerning the Holy Diaconate.
Next Steps
Ready to Apply?
Review the admission requirements, application materials, submission instructions, and important deadlines for the Certificate Program in Diaconal Formation.
The Seminary welcomes applicants who have received their hierarch's blessing to apply. Application materials are available at this link or by clicking the "Apply Now!" button below. In order to be considered as a candidate for admission to the Diaconal Formation Program, the applicant must submit to the admissions committee a completed and signed application for admission, together with the following documents and information:
- Online application: Please click here.
- A recent photograph in JPG format.
- A copy of the record of baptism and/or chrismation.
- A letter of recommendation from your bishop, sent directly applicants@stots.edu or uploaded into the application portal.
- A letter of recommendation from each of your parish priests from the past five years.
- Two additional references from individuals who can knowledgeably discuss your personal background, academic, and/or vocational qualifications from persons other than relatives.
- A non-refundable $75 application fee.
- Application Deadline: August 1, 2026.
Please note: Applications will not be reviewed by the admissions committee until all required materials have been received. A non-refundable $75 application fee is required. Please make checks payable to St. Tikhon's Orthodox Theological Seminary and mail them to:
St. Tikhon's Orthodox Theological Seminary
P.O. Box 130
South Canaan, PA 18459
Questions regarding the Certificate in Diaconal Formation program may be directed to applicants@stots.edu.
Begin Your Journey
Submit your application to join the next cohort of the Certificate Program in Diaconal Formation.
Program Contact
Questions?
V. Rev. Dr. Victor Gorodenchuk
Lecturer
Comparative Theology
Whether you're discerning a vocation to the Holy Diaconate, exploring the program, or preparing your application, Archpriest Victor Gorodenchuk is available to answer your questions and help you learn more about the Certificate Program in Diaconal Formation.
Email
Connect with Fr. Victor.
fr.victor.gorodenchuk@stots.eduPhone
Mon-Fri 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
215-756-2289Biography
View the full biography page.
Biography Page
V. Rev. Dr. Victor Gorodenchuk
Lecturer
Comparative Theology
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