Accreditation

Accreditation is granted to pastoral associates at either Grade 1 or Grade 2 level. The levels of accreditation acknowledge the education, experience and expertise of the pastoral associate. The Position and Accreditation Standards document outlines the expected role and qualifications of accredited pastoral associates. Accreditation is granted by the Archbishop and acknowledges the pastoral associate’s preparedness for parish leadership and ministry alongside the parish priest. Accreditation is ongoing subject to completion of professional development hours, ongoing ministry supervision and continued personal faith development.

In 2011, the Archdiocese is conducting a consulation and review of Accreditation for Pastoral Associates.  An additional focus of the review is the introduction of an Accreditation system for lay chaplains.  During the course of the review the current accreditation system for Pastoral Associates will be in abeyance.  Anyone who is undertaking study to obtain accreditation, or who is ready to apply for accreditation will not be disadvantaged by the review process and provisions will be made on a case by case basis.  Those already accredited who may be due for ongoing accreditation are asked to continue maintaining their logs and allowances will be made for this time period. If you have any questions regarding the review, please contact the AOFE.