Seminary to Priesthood

The seminarian program is based on "Pastores Dabo Vobis," (I will Give You Shepherds) written by St. John Paul II. It focuses on four main pillars of formation, corresponding to four areas of the seminarian's life.

The first area is Intellectual formation. The seminarian will earn a undergraduate degree in Philosophy and a masters degree in Theology.  Disciples are learners. The first task of intellectual formation is to acquire a personal knowledge of the Lord Jesus Christ who is the fullness and completion of God's revelation and the one Teacher.

The second area is Spiritual formation.  To live in intimate and unceasing union with God the Father through his Son, Jesus Christ, in the Holy Spirit. Spiritual formation is about falling in love with Jesus. It is not enough that a Catholic priest know about Jesus and his Church; he must know Jesus personally, and be convinced of the Lord's unconditional love for him and for every person.

The third area is Human formation.  The human personality of the priest is to be a bridge and not an obstacle for others in their meeting with Jesus Christ the Redeemer of the human race.  Human formation includes instilling the virtues of prudence, justice, temperance, and fortitude.  It includes developing humility, constancy, sincerity, patience, good manners and hygiene, and truthfulness.

The fourth area is Pastoral formation. A priest should be a true shepherd of souls after the example of the Lord Jesus Christ, teacher, priest and shepherd. Priesthood is about getting people to heaven! All priestly formation culminates in pastoral skill: being able to shepherd people and help them to grow in holiness.

Contact Vocation Director Father Ross Parker for more information seminary programs.