Selection Process: Medical and Psychological assessments

In order to be assured that an applicant enjoys normal good health the Bishop will arrange for the applicant to have a specific medical examination from his GP, whose confidential report will be sent to the Bishop alone.

Church law requires that the diocesan Bishop must take the psychological health of a candidate into account when he is assessing that candidate’s ability to be able to dedicate himself permanently to the ordained ministry. On his behalf this is undertaken by a chartered clinical or counselling psychologist who is familiar with the demands of priestly life and formation.

The assessment usually consists of a one day appointment which includes two interviews, a brief general intelligence assessment, and a psychometric test of personality and clinical characteristics. The psychologist sends his report to the candidate and the Director of Vocations for the Bishop. This report is confidential to them, and no one else can see it without the written consent of the candidate. The candidate then has the opportunity to discuss the report with the psychologist, Bishop, and Vocation’s Director in a further de-briefing meeting.