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Serving across traditions: Anglican-Lutheran clergy appointment guidelines

This resource outlines the agreed process for clergy appointments across Anglican and Lutheran churches, revised in 2003 by national leadership bodies in both traditions. It provides step-by-step guidance on eligibility, how appointments are initiated and the required consultation between bishops. The document also details terms of appointment, orientation expectations and the accountability structure, along with a list of relevant policy documents from each national church body.

Best suited for: clergy exploring cross-appointment opportunities, bishops and diocesan staff overseeing appointments, parish search committees and ministry leaders responsible for onboarding or supporting clergy serving across Anglican and Lutheran contexts.

Acknowledging the land and God’s creation

This acknowledgement is crafted in light of the Principles of Reconciliation by the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada, as we seek to live faithfully in Christ and in right relationship with all. 

We give thanks to the Creator for this land, its waters, forests and all living beings, and for the abiding presence of Christ among us. From coast to coast to coast, these have been cared for and nurtured by First Nations, Inuit and Métis through countless generations. 

We honour the enduring relationship Indigenous Peoples have cultivated with these lands and waters, and the treaties and agreements that reflect these sacred bonds. We acknowledge the harms caused by colonial expansion, through frameworks like the Doctrine of Discovery and structures like the residential school system. We recognize our past failures as a Church, including disruption of connections to the land and suppression of Indigenous spiritualities. 

Guided by the gospel of Jesus Christ, we confess our need for healing. We commit ourselves to seeking truth, pursuing reconciliation and nurturing harmony with all creation. We place our trust in Christ, through whom all things are reconciled to God. 

May God strengthen us to live faithfully as stewards of the Earth. Let us walk in love, justice and reconciliation, joining in God’s work to restore all creation.