Who We Are : Vocations : FAQ's

1. How do I know that the UACC is a real Catholic Church?

When Jesus came to this earth to bring salvation to humanity and to show all humans the way to the Kingdom of Heaven, he offered a way of life for every human being, in effect, a universal, or catholic church on earth open to all, Jew or Greek, slave or free. One needed only faith and baptism. The true test of a church that claims to be catholic, therefore, is its adherence to these two requirements. This is the UACC's "new way to be Catholic" in today's world, where catholicity, more specifically, Roman Catholicism (the Western Latin Rite and the twenty-two self-governing Eastern Catholic Churches) is instead defined by allegiance to the Bishop of Rome.

Although he created a structure among the twelve apostles (or first bishops), Jesus established not an institutional church but a spiritual church, predicated on the love of God for his children and fellowship among all humans as true brothers and sisters for their mutual love, support and growth as a people of God on a spiritual journey to His Heavenly Kingdom.

The UACC is a "real" Catholic Church through our valid apostolic succession, traceable to the first bishops. We also follow the beliefs of the united historical church expressed through the Seven Ecumenical Councils. We celebrate Mass, recognize the Seven Sacraments and adhere to the Episcopal organization of Bishop, Priest and Deacon.

As a Catholic church, we are in spiritual communion with all other churches, while we acknowledge that not all churches choose to establish a formal inter-communion relationship with any church not juridically bound to their particular bishop.

It is important to understand that what unites people as Catholics is Jesus, not a codified set of laws, dogmas or doctrine. Even the briefest investigation into the history of the historical church will bring to light the role that politics, power and pride played in evolving and ultimately dividing Jesus' church, the first of many such divisions taking place in 1054. We pray that people will continue to hear the voice of the Spirit that is guiding many back to the real Catholic Church, Jesus' spiritual church of believers.

2. Are there minimum and maximum age restrictions for ordination?

An individual who seeks ordination must have completed 21 (twenty-one) years of age. There is no maximum age.

3. How much schooling do I need before I can be ordained?

Prior to beginning studies for ordination, a candidate must have obtained a high school diploma or GED. A university degree is preferable. Candidates accepted into the program follow the UACC-approved study plan leading to ordination.

4. Do I have to have a college degree?

No, but it is preferable. A high school diploma is the minimum requirement.

5. How long will it take?

The length of time it takes depends on one's individual progress and/or prior studies. The typical time-frame is 18 to 24 months.

6. Where is the UACC Seminary? How can I attend and still meet my work and family obligations?

The UACC provides for a non-residential, independent study program. Independent, however, does not mean unstructured or unsupervised. A student has constant access to UACC clergy for guidance, orientation, mentoring and general discussion and exchange of ideas. A student sets his/her own time schedule for study, allowing family and employment obligations to be met. Extensions beyond the 24-month period may be requested and will be evaluated by the Presiding Bishop on a case-by-case basis.

The UACC is committed to ordaining only those found to be qualified spiritually, mentally, emotionally and educationally.

7. Can I be ordained if I am married / divorced / gay?

Yes. By virtue of our Christian baptism, we are all called to be promoters of Jesus and his message of love and salvation. Some, however, are called to live the Christian life as members of his ordained ministry.

8. Does the UACC ordain women?

Yes. Women were always a part of Jesus' life and ministry and shared with men equal footing in living and proclaiming Jesus' message.

9. Are all priests celibate?

No. Celibacy is an individual choice and also a gift to those who receive it.

10. Do deacons and priests get paid?

Maybe. Most priests and deacons in ministry provide for their financial needs through secular employment. This does not preclude the possibility of clergy establishing a parish or mission and receiving a stipend or compensation from the congregation if the congregants opt to provide it.

11. What do deacons and priests actually do?

First and foremost, a priest or deacon is responsible for sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ and assisting people to come into a closer relationship with God their Father and with one another. Priests and deacons in the UACC have a variety of functions and ministries, depending on what they feel called to do by the Holy Spirit.

Your individual ministry will dictate your duties in supporting the mission of The United American Catholic Church to be a Missional Church offering every person a spiritual home, wherein each is empowered to live a Gospel-based life and to fulfill the Great Commission of Jesus Christ. Our UACC clergy support this mission through ministries that include contemplative prayer, hospital and nursing home chaplaincies, end-of-life issues and care, LGBT support, and Hispanic ministry.

As ordained clergy, your general responsibilities include providing for the celebration of Holy Mass and the imparting of the Sacraments, specifically Baptism, Reconciliation, Eucharist, Matrimony and the Sacramental Care of the Sick and Dying.

12. Are there background checks? Must I undergo a psychological examination?

All seminarians must agree to a background check. You may be also be required to undergo a psychological examination, at your own expense, if during the application and interview process information comes to light about your emotional and psychological state that potentially would affect your ability to serve in the capacity of an ordained minister.