Simple question....

[josephback]

Hi, I’ve had a couple people comment (joking or otherwise) that I should become a priest. My question is that at one point in the past I spent three weeks in the psychiatric ward of a hospital. I’m ok now but would such a thing disqualify me from the priesthood? Also, are there any orders of missionary priests out there? Thanks in advance

 

[GEddie]

1. If you are not physically and mentally healthy, you would not be allowed to begin formation toward the priesthood. However, having had a health issue in the past, either way, would be a matter between you and your spiritual director to discern. It would not be automatic.
2. There are indeed missionary priests, several orders of them, indeed.

ICXC NIKA

 

[Saint_Macarius]

Hi, I’ve had a couple people comment (joking or otherwise) that I should become a priest. My question is that at one point in the past I spent three weeks in the psychiatric ward of a hospital. I’m ok now but would such a thing disqualify me from the priesthood? Also, are there any orders of missionary priests out there? Thanks in advance

SVD, CM, and SDB are missionary congregations, there are many more though

 

[m134e5]

Hi, I’ve had a couple people comment (joking or otherwise) that I should become a priest. My question is that at one point in the past I spent three weeks in the psychiatric ward of a hospital. I’m ok now but would such a thing disqualify me from the priesthood? Also, are there any orders of missionary priests out there? Thanks in advance

How recent was your stay in the psychiatric ward? Also, for what reasons were you there? Discuss it in spiritual direction- it’s safe there, but do not mention it around people who could influence the diocese’s decision about whether or not to admit you. If there is something serious, your spiritual director will suggest that this is not your vocation. If you attempted suicide (not just talked about it- actually tried to go through with it), or have a psychological disorder that required a hospital stay, this is likely a sign that God is not calling you to that vocation.

 

[DaughterOfMary6]

The only surefire way to know is to contact the vocations director of your diocese. Each one has different rules and regulation on who they would and would not admit. If it was several years ago and you have not had a recurrence, then the pendulum will more than likely swing in your favor, but if it is something severe enough to affect your future ministry, then you may not be called to be a priest.