Would I be allowed to pay child support while studying for the priesthood?

[plogoo]

I’m a 22 year old man, I have never been married, came into church this past Easter and I am thinking of joining the priesthood. I have graduated from High school and have already taken some college classes. I am financially sound and have little to no debt. I’m also physically and mentally fit. I have been discerning priest hood for some time now and think that it is a possibility. There is one thing that may cause some concern. Before I came into the Church I had a little girl with my ex. She is now 1 year old. My ex and i get a long great and my ex has full custody of our daughter. As is my obligation, I pay 200 dollars for child support.

My question is this: If I I have enough money saved to pay for my daughters child support for years to come would i be eligible for seminary?

For example, if I had 50k dollars in savings that I devoted towards Child Support obligations.

50,000/ $200 per month = 250 months = 20.8 years total.

In addition to this I am eligible for the G.I. Bill while in seminary and could save that money for any further financial obligations.

Essentially, could someone become a Priest if they hold all the other qualifications and their child has a mother that has full custody and the financial obligations are totally taken care of?

 

[Fr.Vincent_Serpa]

Dear friend,

You are more than a financial provider for that little girl; you are her father! She is not a financial burden that you are stuck with; she is your daughter. Please, let that in. Every child needs a mother and a father. Don’t deny her your presence. Your vocation now is to be her parent. You can know that God is not calling you to the priesthood at this time in your life. No seminary or religious order will take a man who has such current responsibilities.

Open your self to her and she will be your princess. This is a good thing. You are in our prayers.

Fr. Vincent Serpa, O.P.