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Iona Report: The Diaconate in the Anglican Church of Canada

The Iona Report outlines core competencies for the formation, training and assessment of deacons in the Anglican Church of Canada. Developed through national consultation, it identifies the knowledge, skills, spiritual practices and community commitments that shape diaconal ministry within Anglican tradition. The report is used by dioceses, schools of ministry and local communities to support consistent preparation, discernment and evaluation for those called to the diaconate.

Suggested uses

  • Formation and training for individuals discerning a call to the diaconate
  • Guidance for diocesan programs shaping diaconal education and assessment
  • Support for parish leaders accompanying candidates through local discernment
  • Reference for ministry committees, educators and vocational panels

Key themes

  • Core competencies for diaconal ministry
  • Spiritual formation and vocational discernment
  • Community engagement and servant leadership
  • Shared expectations for training across dioceses

Best suited for: dioceses, ministry schools, parish discernment committees, deacons and those exploring a call to diaconal ministry.

Iona report cover

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.