Pastoral References

Pastoral References for Catholic School Board Positions 

The Diocese of Hamilton, in conjunction with the Catholic School Boards, has instituted a Pastoral Reference protocol which applies to all school boards within the diocese. The new pastoral reference can be used for any of the boards; individual references for differing boards is not required. Please note that Pastoral References will be considered for those who are registered and active within our parish.

Steps to Obtaining a Pastoral Reference:

1. The candidate will request a meeting via  email : stbenedictmilton@hamiltondiocese.com with one of our pastoral team.  We will arrange an in-person meeting to discuss the reference. This will provide the pastoral interviewer an opportunity to familiarize themselves with the teacher/teacher candidate and to gain an understanding of their faith life and how they apply the faith to their role within the education system.
2. To prepare for the pastoral reference, the candidate shall read the diocesan-issued document, THE FAITH WE BELIEVE: UNPACKING THE CREED. Candidates will then come to the interview prepared to discuss their insights from the document, their role of faith as an educator, how they practice their faith in daily life and what the candidate brings through faith to the Catholic schools.
3. At the conclusion of the in-person meeting, a formal PROFESSION OF FAITH will be made and a priest will sign and seal your Pastoral Reference.

Candidates should familiarize themselves with the required documents prior to the interview. We will provide the printed copy of the Pastoral Reference and Profession of Faith so there is no need to bring a printed copy of either to the meeting.