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Joseph18
Guest
Hey all, I was wondering how much(if any)spiritual formation varies between seminaries? I wouldn’t think the academics would vary much, but if I’m wrong on this please let me know. Thanks
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OKCatholic
Guest
That’s a good question. Seminaries can vary quite a bit in the area of spiritual formation. Some seminaries were established by religious orders and still lean towards that particular charism (Conception in Missouri and Saint Meinrad in Indiana are both Benedictine abbeys). St. John Vianney Seminary in Denver actually has an extra year of formation for pre-theology seminarians. Some vocations directors don’t like this and prefer not to send their guys there.
I suppose it mostly depends on the staff and also the history of the seminary itself. But, it’s not like many of us get a choice in which seminary we attend. When I met with my archbishop he told me exactly where I was going. But, it’s all good. Regardless where you may get sent it’ll be exciting and you’ll learn a lot. Spiritual formation, like many things, depends on how much effort you put into it.
So, pray. Pray hard.
I suppose it mostly depends on the staff and also the history of the seminary itself. But, it’s not like many of us get a choice in which seminary we attend. When I met with my archbishop he told me exactly where I was going. But, it’s all good. Regardless where you may get sent it’ll be exciting and you’ll learn a lot. Spiritual formation, like many things, depends on how much effort you put into it.
So, pray. Pray hard.
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Provigil
Guest
__________________________________________________________________________Dear Joseph,Hey all, I was wondering how much(if any)spiritual formation varies between seminaries? I wouldn’t think the academics would vary much, but if I’m wrong on this please let me know. Thanks
With the most recent changes in seminary life, the spiritual aspect is stressed highly. When I was at the Pontifical Josephinum in Columbus the only seminary that is fused with Rome ] they take spirituality with great emphasis. If you cannot be a spiritual person,
how can you lead your congreation?
As for the academics, I joined the seminary at a later date, the academics were very TAXING and difficult. Unless you do not like to study, I would advie you not to go in the seminary. When I was at the Pontifical College Josephinum, I spent at least 90% of my time in the library; there are many research papers that one has to do.
The seminary is concerned about your spirituality, but also your academics. If you cannot perform well, than, they will ask you to leave.
If I can help you, please contact me.
PROVIGIL
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thelordssheep
Guest
My experience that both spiritual life and academic life vary from place to place. For example, in minor (college) seminary, you may take classes at another University or at the seminary itself. You may have a more/less strict schedule, more/less mandatory community time, more/less apostolic work, etc that can cause your experience to vary drastically.
My advice? Discern if the Holy Spirit is calling you to the priesthood, and let God work things out with your Bishop.
Also, know that while you will have to do a significant amount of studying, the seminary/priesthood is not for academics- it’s for men who want to serve God as His ministers. I’ve known many a seminarian that was little more than an average student who made it through school (although they struggled!) and are now very good and holy priests. If it’s God’s will, He will give you the grace to do the studying you need.
God bless you!
My advice? Discern if the Holy Spirit is calling you to the priesthood, and let God work things out with your Bishop.
Also, know that while you will have to do a significant amount of studying, the seminary/priesthood is not for academics- it’s for men who want to serve God as His ministers. I’ve known many a seminarian that was little more than an average student who made it through school (although they struggled!) and are now very good and holy priests. If it’s God’s will, He will give you the grace to do the studying you need.
God bless you!
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