What we do

Forming faithful ministers

The Clergy Formation department exists to support the life, mission, and spiritual growth of priests and deacons throughout the Diocese of Lancaster. Rooted in the Church’s vision of lifelong formation, it seeks to foster identity, deepen fraternity, and build the bond of charity among clergy in communion with the Bishop. Ongoing formation is not simply a matter of professional development—it is a vital part of sustaining a joyful, faithful, and fruitful vocational life. The department accompanies priests and deacons in every stage of their ministry, encouraging regular reflection, shared learning, and renewal.

Opportunities for growth

The department organises a variety of formation opportunities across the year, including:

Clergy Study Days
Days of Recollection
Annual Retreats
Fraternity gatherings and peer support
Faculty applications and permissions
Formation for newly ordained priests

These events are designed to nourish the spiritual, pastoral, intellectual, and human dimensions of a priest or deacon's life. They also provide space for priests and deacons to pray together, learn together, and support one another in ministry.

Contact our department

Get in touch with our team.

Clergy Formation
The Pastoral Centre
Balmoral Road
Lancaster
LA1 3BT

Key contact

Fr
Philip
Conner
Episcopal Vicar for Clergy