York Diocesan Archive: Diocesan Registry: Ordination & Licensing

The records have been divided into 10 sub sub sub fonds as follows:

• Ordination
• Subscription
• Delegation
• Nominations
• Licensing of Curates
• Rural Deans' Commissions
• Colonial & Overseas Clergy
• Lay Readers
• Resignation & Pensions
• Relinquishment of Orders

There is an accepted division between those who are ordained (clergy), and those who are not (the laity). In the years before the Reformation, these lines were blurred as there were various minor orders, clerks and members of religious orders who may or may not have been ordained. After the reformation the lines between the ordained and the laity became clear, particularly as the more secular roles preciously associated with the clergy (e.g. teaching) became to be considered unsuitable for members of the clergy. Throughout the twentieth century these lines have again become blurred as there is now an increasing number of non-stipendiary (unpaid) clergy, readers & licensed lay workers who continue with their secular jobs while having a role to play in the church.

This sub sub fonds is a grouping together of records from the Diocesan Registry relating to ordination & licensing.

The system of arrangement is reflected in the scope & content.

Records are open to the public, subject to the overriding provisions of relevant legislation and the wishes of the donors/owners.

The Diocesan Registrar has deposited records relating to the Diocese of York at the Borthwick Institute since 1953.

Description compiled by Victoria Stretch, Archives Hub project archivist, June 2004 with reference to 'A Guide to the Archive Collections in the Borthwick Institute of Historical Research', David M Smith 1973, 'A Supplementary Guide to the Archive Collections in the Borthwick Institute of Historical Research', David M Smith 1980 and 'A Guide to Archival Accessions at the Borthwick Institute 1981-1996' complied by Alexandrina Buchanan, 1997.

Where indicated hard copy finding aids are available at the Borthwick Institute.

A reprographics service is available to researchers. Copying will not be undertaken if there is a risk of damage to the document. Copies are supplied in accordance with the Borthwick Institute University of York terms and conditions for the supply of copies, and under the provisions of any relevant copyright legislation. Permission to reproduce images of documents in the custody of the Borthwick Institute must be sought.

These records have been appraised in accordance with Borthwick Institute policy.

See 'Towards a University' by J S Purvis (York, Herald Printers, 1968) for information regarding the history of the York Diocesan Archive and its deposit at the Borthwick Institute.

Accruals are expected

York Diocesan Archive

Where indicated publications based on or about the records have been produced.