In order to apply for canonical residence, rectors must have a full-time, stipendiary position (40 hours per week) at a church or institution of the Diocese of Atlanta. The bishop will not accept Letters Dimissory until the hourly/stipendiary criterion is met, the bishop has determined that accepting Letters Dimissory is appropriate, or the Bishop has instructed the clergyperson to request them.

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Presbyters

Rectors are required to present Letters Dimissory within 60 days of their appointment as rector/vicar (Title III, 9.4). When a call to the Diocese of Atlanta has been issued and accepted, rectors should request Letters Dimissory from the Ecclesiastical Authority in the diocese of their canonical residence. Request that Letters Dimissory be sent to The Rt. Rev. Robert C. Wright, 2744 Peachtree Road, Atlanta, GA 30305. Assistants, Associates, and Curates must be licensed and after 18 months the bishop will consider your application to receive your Letters Dimissory.

Deacons

When deacons move from another diocese of the Episcopal Church and wish to function in the Diocese of Atlanta, they must go through the diocese’s licensing process. A deacon may not transfer Letters Dimissory without written consent from the Bishop of Atlanta (C&C, III.7.6).

Interim/Retired Clergy

The Bishop does not accept Letters Dimissory for interim clergy or retired clergy.

To request your Letters Dimissory or canonical transfer from the Diocese of Atlanta complete the online form Request for Letters Dimissory.