We originated as a Church ministry in Toronto, Ontario, initially as St. Peter’s Tabernacle and evolved into York St. Peter’s Evangelistic Organization, a non-profit charitable Organization and recognized Religious Body in 1968. We are Protestant Christians, not Roman Catholic as our name may suggest. As a Religious Body (commonly known as a Denomination) within the province of Ontario, we possess the authority to instruct our faith, confer legally recognized Clergy credentials, and engage in governmental representation.

Throughout our history, we have maintained a modest physical presence in North York and among our affiliated ministries. In 2015, we extended our ministry’s influence by establishing a prominent online training presence. We have been registered as a not-for-profit charitable incorporation since 1962, and our official status as a Religious Body was attained in 1968 after thorough examination and due process by our governing bodies. We operate under the oversight of the Charitable Directorate and the Office of the Registrar General of Marriage, Birth, and Death, demonstrating our standing as a legitimate Religious Body (Denomination). Each credential issued by our Organization undergoes a rigorous period of scriptural study and assessment. Credentials are earned through a formal ceremony and are never distributed for monetary compensation or through mail services. 

We are all entitled to our own beliefs however the criteria for acceptance into this program requires that you are fully in agreement with the York St. Peter’s Statement of Faith. If not then we respectfully advise against applying for credentials with our organization. There will be other entities better suited to meet your needs and beliefs. Thank you for your understanding.

The beauty of ministering for Christ is that it transcends the confines of a church building. Whether you are drawn to pulpit ministry, youth ministry, Bible study, Christian counseling, worship ministry, missions, evangelism, or community outreach, the possibilities are vast. There is a profound need for salvation in places like jails and hospital wards, and opportunities abound to promote Christian values, such as officiating Holy Matrimony. You are not limited by time or place; the world needs God’s people everywhere, at all times. Your contributions, whether big or small, in any area that glorifies God, are not only valid but crucial. Your dedication to serving Christ holds the potential to bring about positive and transformative impacts everwhere you go. Embrace the diversity of opportunities, and let your service shine for the glory of God

We strive to build a foundation of trust and integrity ensuring that Christian ministers are sincere, well-prepared, and safe to represent this organization, and the Gospel within the public sector. Here are steps that we take with each applicant:

• We have a comprehensive application process that includes detailed personal and professional information, and personal references. 
• We require ministers to sign a clear and detailed Statement of Faith, aligning with the principles and beliefs of this organization, therefore ensuring that they understand and adhere to this organization’s doctrinal positions.
• A Vulnerable Sector Police Check is required of all individuals accepted into the Program. These checks ensure transparency and identify any potential problems. 
• Applicants must provide a recommendation from their current or previous pastors, one emphasizing their character, commitment, and suitability for ministry. They are also asked to verify the applicants  past involvement and roles in church or ministry settings.
• A thorough interview is conducted with each applicant to assess their mindset, understanding of theology, commitment to Christian values, and to know their aspirations for ministry.
• We confirm the educational background of each applicant.
• Each student must sign a comprehensive Code of Conduct outlining expected behaviors, ethical standards, and guidelines for public representation.
• We conduct regular evaluations of students’ performance, behavior, Christian character, and adherence to organizational standards. Concerns are addressed promptly.

While we currently do not engage in Church planting, our focus lies in offering comprehensive study programs and legal credentials for ordination and marriage. It is our anticipation that those participating in the Ministry Ordination Program are from independent ministries, or individuals who have a call to ministry and intentions to establish their own independent ministry, either already in progress or a part of their future plans.

And rightfully so. Ordination is a sacred and public recognition of a person’s call, preparation, character, and readiness to serve in Christian ministry. The title puts you in a position of public trust. It is not granted lightly. Diligence is paramount in this program. We look for a commitment to earnest effort and spiritual advancement among our students. The expectation is made clear: study to exhibit competence, and confidence, then proceed to fulfill the divine calling on your life. Regardless of one’s familiarity with Bible theology, the essence of time, study, comprehension, and wisdom will always remain as goals to be achieved. An understanding of God’s Word is cultivated through dedicated study, which is a lifelong commitment for anyone devoted to serving as a person of God. It’s an ongoing journey, so considering the significance of 10 months in this context really just becomes a matter of perspective.

No, unfortunately you would not. York St. Peter’s represents Protestant Denominations. The Roman Catholic and Protestant Statements of Faith are not the same. While both groups hold the fundamental Christian beliefs such as the Trinity, the divinity of Jesus Christ, and Salvation through faith, there are significant theological differences between the two. For this reason, we serve those within the Protestant Christian Faith

At York St. Peter’s we affirm God’s plan for marriage and sexual intimacy; that is one natural man to one natural woman, for life. Through the scriptures we understand that anything outside of this is not God’s plan for mankind, therefore we would not be able to elevate an individual of the LGBTQi++ community to ordination on the basis of creed. 

No. Acceptance into the Program does not guarantee ordination. Ordination is granted only to qualified students who successfully complete the Ministry Ordination Program and demonstrate the qualities for ministry readiness according to biblical standards, and those of this Religious Body. If the course is not completed successfully, we cannot proceed with the ordination process. This approach ensures that those ordained through the Ministry Ordination Program are well-prepared and qualified to fulfill their responsibilities with a sound understanding of their faith.

Jesus’ simple requirement in Matthew 4:19 to his disciples was to “Follow me, and I will make you fishers of men.” You don’t require seminary or a degree to lead someone to Cross, or even to minister for Christ. Anyone suggesting otherwise may need to answer to God for conveying this misconception. According to the Great Commission in Matthew 28:16-20, all believers must minister, although some are distinctly called to leadership roles. By the way, only God can ordain a person. We, as mere humans can only recognize God’s ordained. If God has ordained you to minister, then you must minister… regardless of an ordination certificate or degree. What you must know is God and His Word, so then you must study to show yourself approved, that you are rightfully dividing the Word of Truth.

Reflecting on Christ’s disciples, who lacked formal education or traditional ordination as we understand it today, can provide insight. In Acts 8 and 9, individuals immediately embraced salvation, repented, and became witnesses and ministers for the Lord, irrespective of how new they were in their faith. While diligent study is a truth that all Christians, especially those called to minister, must adhere to, man-made stipulations should not overshadow this foundational principle. We encourage all believers to pursue studies at any available Theological Institute if able, but for those unable to do so, YSPEO offers accessible and affordable Bible study programs along with legal credentials. For ordained ministers, engaging in lifelong scripture study remains a continual pursuit.

No. We not offer direct ordination or fast-track ordination based on previous study or ministry experience alone. All candidates seeking credentials must complete the Ministry Ordination Program in it’s entirety and be evaluated for biblical understanding, conduct, character, participation, and ministry readiness.

As with any other learning Institution, if you fail the course you are welcome to take it again but you will have to pay the full tuition fee.

Then we strongly recommend enrolling at a time when you can fully commit to the study schedule.

The Ministry Ordination Program is structured and deadline-based. All students move through the same study material at the same time, and the Program continues whether a student is present or away. Because the Program is only 10 months, late submissions and extended deadlines are not granted, and are only approved for an emergency or exceptional circumstance with documentation. Deadlines help demonstrate the accountability, discipline, and faithfulness expected of those preparing for ministry so for this reason, they are not excused. Students are responsible for keeping up with coursework, participation, and required deadlines from any location. This includes video conference attendance.

80% of our Ministry Ordination Program can be accessed online however practical Workshops must be attended in person at our GTA Church location.  With that being said, if you cannot travel to Toronto for the onsite portion due to a distance of more than 100km, you will need to apply for Online Practical Guidance, where extra instruction will be given as you complete these requirements online during scheduled time with a facilitator.  Regardless of distance from Toronto, all must attend their Ordination Ceremony in person at our GTA Church location. 

See the Tuition Payment and Refund Policy on the Ministry Ordination Program page.

Upon successful completion of the Program, students will receive a Academic Report showing the theological studies completed through the Ministry Ordination Program. The Ordination Certificate serves as the primary credential and recommendation of the Church. It confirms that the student has completed required ministry training and has been approved for ordination.