I'm thinking about going to the seminary, what should I do next?
Most importantly, keep praying about your vocation. Then speak to your parish priest who will assist you in contacting the vocation director to set up an appointment.
If I enter the seminary, am I committing to the priesthood? What if I am still uncertain?
Your time in the seminary is specifically meant to help you listen and further discern the will of God. Entering the seminary does require a certain level of commitment, but no seminary would expect you to be completely secure in your calling.
How do I know for sure that I should enter the seminary?
Honestly, I do not know if we are ever sure when to enter the seminary. It is something that should be done after serious prayer and discussion with your family, pastor and vocation director. Then, just go for it. Do not be afraid! You have nothing to lose but everything to gain!
What will seminary life be like?
The seminary is an incredible opportunity to focus on listening to the voice of God speaking within and to heed that voice by becoming more of the man God created you to be. There are four main pillars to seminary formation: spiritual, intellectual, human and pastoral. All of these aspects come together to make up what it means to be a priest.
How long will it take to become a priest?
Usually between six and eight years of seminary formation. Academically, for those who have a four year college degree, this will mean six years of formation including two years of philosophy and four years of theological studies. If you are entering out of high school or later in life and do not have a four year college degree, the diocese will first send you to obtain a college degree (which usually takes four years) and then onto study theology for four years.
Spiritual Formation helps you grow in your love for Jesus Christ and His Church. When you are attuned to the voice of God, you will find the fullfillment you seek. He is the one who calls, strengthens and guides every aspect of your life. He will make of you a good shepherd for his people.
Intellectual formation is vital. You need to be a man of faith who knows how to communicate the message of Christ in an increasingly complex world. You do not have to be a genius (if you are, that's great), but you do need to understand and immerse yourself in the great tradition of the faith and learn how to share that faith effectively in a world yearning for the light of the Gospel.
Human formation is about further developing your social skills. As a priest, it is important to be comfortable interacting with people of all ages and backgrounds. You must be someone who is seen as approachable, understanding and compassionate. The seminary helps you to take a closer look at yourself, so as to build on your strengths and correct your weaknesses.
Pastoral formation is about fine tuning your ability to serve the Catholic faithful. A life dedicated to God's people involves numerous aspects of priestly service: leading, celebrating, administering, educating, counseling, healing and comforting - just to mention a few. Your pastoral all is always to further enhance your gifts and, in the process, build up God's kingdom here on earth.
