Ordination is the culmination of the process by which The Episcopal Church certifies a person for the ordained ministries of deacon, priest and bishop. This process generally includes discernment, education, formal training, field placement, hospital chaplaincies, physical and psychological examination, and academic evaluation. Each diocese structures its ordination process individually based on national canons and local context. Decisions about where formation and education for ordained ministry can best take place are made in consultation with that diocese's Bishop and Commission on Ministry.

Discerning a call to such a ministry occurs in community with others and usually includes clergy and laity from a local congregation; chaplains at educational institutions; members of the bishop's staff; local and regional leaders; and trusted friends. Many dioceses provide for discernment to take place in an Episcopal congregation or other community of faith.