PRIESTHOOD Questions/Answers

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Concerning you desire to visit other congregations... that would not be a bad idea.  You may want to find a congregation a bit closer to home.  Do not wait years to follow the Lord's invitation to follow Him.

God does not call someone to a particular way of life and then prohibit them from entering in to it.  The question you will have to answer for yourself would certainly include looking at the reality of your particular situation.  Are your expectations realistic?  At the same time, as Mother Angelica once said, "How can you expect the miraculous unless you expect the ridiculous?"  If the Lord is calling you to a congregation in another country, He WILL provide the means by which to get there.   

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Of course, above all is finding God's will in my life and for the world. I just would like to know what to expect!

Seminary is "really, truly a place of deeper discernment" as you say.  If you were to enter for the Diocese of Phoenix, the application process would help you discern God will.  Some of the "obligations or responsibilities" would include:

    Relation to God. Does the candidate give evidence of an active and real prayer life? Does the candidate participate frequently in the celebration of Mass and the sacraments, especially the sacrament of Penance and Reconciliation? Is there evidence of a devotional life?

    Ability to articulate faith. The candidate will need, in most cases, to preach/teach. Therefore, is the candidate able to express or articulate his/her faith so that it makes sense in private and in public? Does the candidate demonstrate an adequate knowledge and depth of understanding of the Catholic faith?

    Openness to lay apostolate. Is candidate able to share ministerial responsibility with laity? Is he/she able to collaborate authentically with all kinds of people as found in a typical parish, without dodging responsibility?

    Openness to others. Is there a healthy attitude and "ability to relate" with other men and women? Does the candidate have a sense of "appropriate boundaries"?

    Openness and concern for the poor. Does the candidate know something of the Scriptures and social teachings of the Church with regard to poor, the "poor in spirit," wherever they are found?

    Openness to ethnic diversity. Is the candidate open to learning Spanish, or does he/she know a second pastoral language? How does he/she relate to people of various cultural backgrounds?

    Commitment and adherence to the Church's message. Does the candidate have an adequate grasp and understanding of Catholic dogma and moral teachings so as to give solid witness of this to others?

    Respect for Church life. Is the candidate comfortable with legitimate and approved diversity of expression within the life of the Church? Is  he/she able to avoid polarization and labeling of others?

    Openness to the entire formation program of the seminary/novitiate. Does the candidate demonstrate an ability to meet challenges and adapt to changes, as well as an openness to spiritual growth and maturity during formation?

Lastly, you wonder about being frowned upon... As long as you are truly seeking to do God will with a sincere heart, you will not be frowned upon.

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After a young man is ordained for the Diocese of Phoenix, there is a possibility for them to do further studies in Rome.  This would need to be discussed with the Bishop.  Several factors would be considered in making such a decision which would certainly include the needs of the diocese.

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I was wondering if you could give any suggestions on relating to my sisters in Christ. I often feel attracted and would like to pursue a relationship but know that it is likely not my calling. Often even really good and holy friendships with some of my female friends don't quite feel right. I am just looking for appropriate boundaries for myself and for my sisters.

Another powerful statement from Pope Paul VI comes in paragraph 24.  He reminds us that "the response to the divine call is an answer of love to the love which Christ has shown us so sublimely. This response is included in the mystery of that special love for souls who have accepted His most urgent appeals. With a divine force, grace increases the longings of love. And love, when it is genuine, is all-embracing, stable and lasting, an irresistible spur to all forms of heroism. And so the free choice of sacred celibacy has always been considered by the Church "as a symbol of, and stimulus to, charity".  It signifies a love without reservations; it stimulates to a charity which is open to all. In a life so completely dedicated and motivated, who can see the sign of spiritual narrowness or self-seeking, and not see rather that celibacy is and ought to be a rare and very meaningful example of a life motivated by love, by which man expresses his own unique greatness? Who can doubt the moral and spiritual richness of such a life, consecrated not to any human ideal, no matter how noble, but to Christ and to His work to bring about a new form of humanity in all places and for all generations" (SC, 24)May your love be complete as you seek to do God's will.

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11/ 13/07  (St. Francis Xavier Cabrini) I am 37 years old and have never been married. I have always felt a tugging at my heart towards the priesthood, but I have always made excuses to ignore it. Work, girlfriend, school, etc. I feel now God wants me to answer. What should I do. Am I too old?

Thank you for your excellent question.  Yes, there are some dioceses and Religious Orders that do accept 'belated' vocations.  Typically the ages for entering an Order or a diocese are between 18 and 35.  Some of the Orders/dioceses that do accept belated vocations will have some sort of age limit above that (for ex: 55 years of age).  You can check out the specifics on the vocation search located on the Institute of Religious Life website: www.religiouslife.com  or call the Director of Vocations for your particular diocese to find out the age limits.  Remember that a deacon is also an ordained minister in the Church and their age restrictions are less stringent.

The Lord does indeed call when He will...and for some it is later in life.  However sometimes the call to holiness can be confused with the call to a religious vocation.  This is something that can be better assessed by those who know you, most particularly a spiritual director.

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10/ 09/07 (Sts. Denis and Companions/St. John Leonardi)  I feel that God is calling me to become a religious following the footstep of St. Francis in the life of simplicity since when I was a child until now. I see myself wearing the religious habit of St. Francis praying in front of the Blessed Sacrament alone.  I tried to join and experience other Franciscan community but it seems something God wants me to do. I feel he called me to become a hermit or something cloistered but sad to say that no Franciscan cloistered for men here in the Philippines except the Benedictine and other religious community for women like the Poor Clare nun and the Carmelite nun.  I feel that God is calling me to explore something deeper in a very unique way of life following the life of St. Francis of Assisi.  My general question is, is anyone permitted to wear the religious habit without living the community and explore living alone or in the parish exploring his vocation to religious life?  I hope and I pray that I could hear from your answer  soon.  Do pray for me as I for you and to the rest of the community and to all the young men and woman discerning their vocation to religious life. thank you

If God is calling you to follow in the footsteps of St. Francis by living a life of simplicity since you were a child, then follow in the footsteps of St. Francis by living a life of simplicity.  You will find yourself depending on God more and yourself less... not a bad way to live.  You do not need a religious habit to be live a simple life for the Lord.  There may be other cloistered orders outside of the Philippines that you may want to look into.  Concerning your second question... you can probably wear whatever you like IF you are living alone.  The purpose of the religious habit is to identify you with a particular community which would probably be the best place to obtain the religious habit.  With that in mind, I would suggest you not wear a habit except within a religious community.

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10/ 09/07 (Sts. Denis and Companions/St. John Leonardi)  I am thinking about entering the Benedictine order and have been separated from my wife for 3and a half years. We have a daughter but she lives with her mother in another country. Would there be a problem joining the community and what dispensation would be necessary?

Before applying to any religious community, you would need to be granted an annulment.  Each religious community is unique in their expectation for their candidates.  It would be helpful for you to find a community that you are interested in becoming a part of and inquire into their specific requirements.  The annulment would definitely have to be granted before you could begin any type of application process.

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10/ 09/07 (Sts. Denis and Companions/St. John Leonardi) Is it permitted for a person outside the convent or monastery to wear a religious habit as a sign of his vocation and devotion without joining a religious community but practicing the life of poverty, chastity obedience and also trying to live a semi-contemplative way of life or active-contemplative way of life?

No

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8/ 20/07 (St. Bernard)  Can someone have more than one vocation?

The Catechism defines a vocation as:  "The calling or destiny we have in this life and hereafter.  God has created the human person to love and serve Him; the fulfillment of this vocation is eternal happiness.  Christ calls the faithful to the perfection of holiness.  The vocation of the laity consists in seeking the Kingdom of God by engaging in temporal affairs and directing them according to God's Will.  Priestly and religious vocations are dedicated to the service of the Church as the universal sacrament of salvation."  You could certainly add the marriage as a vocation as well.

Venerable John Henry Newman addresses one's vocation this way:  "God has created me to do Him some definite service; He has committed some work to me which He has not committed to another. I have my mission... I have a part in a great work; I am a link in a chain, a bond of connection between persons. He has not created me for naught. I shall do good, I shall do His work; I shall be an angel of peace, a preacher of truth in my own place, while not intending it, if I do but keep His commandments and serve Him in my calling." 

To answer your question... there is really only one vocation and it includes dedicating your whole life to God. It is the call to be saints.  It is the call to be holy. It is the call to use your gifts in the service of God's people.

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8/18/07 (St. Jane Frances de Chantal)  Does prayer changes God's mind?

Thank you for your question.  St. Thomas Aquinas addresses this very question this way. "In order to throw light on this question we must consider that divine providence decrees not only what effects shall take place, but also from what causes and in what order these effects shall take place. Now among other causes human acts are the causes of certain effects. Wherefore it must be that men do certain actions, not that thereby they may change the divine decree, but that by those actions they may achieve certain effects according to the order of the divine decree: and the same is to be said of natural causes. And so it is with regard to prayer. For we pray, not that we may change the divine decree, but that we may impetrate (to request something in an earnest manner, especially in prayer) that which God has decreed to be fulfilled by our prayers, in other words "that by asking, men may deserve to receive what Almighty God from eternity has decreed to give" (Summa Theologica 2-2.83.2c).

8/ 17/07  Do you have to go to college before seminary?

You do not have to go to college before entering the seminary.  The Diocese of Phoenix currently sends college age students to college seminary where they will receive a college degree as well as all the necessary prerequisites to be begin the theology program.

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7/24/07 (St. Sharbel Makhlouf) Which Religious Orders consider older men for their communities? I heard a Priest on EWTN say that there communities for older vocations. Thank You!  

Thank you for your question.  There are Orders that accept 'belated' vocations.  Typically the ages for entering an Order are between 18 and 35.  Some of the Orders that do accept belated vocations will have some sort of age limit above that (for ex: 55 years of age).  There are too many religious orders to mention here but I would suggest that you contact the order you are interested in to see what they have concerning age requirements.You can check out the specifics on the vocation search located on the Institute of Religious Life website: www.religiouslife.com  The Lord does indeed call when He will...and for some it is later in life.  However sometimes the call to holiness can be confused with the call to a religious vocation.  This is something that can be better assessed by those who know you, most particularly a spiritual director. 

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7/24/07 (St. Sharbel Makhlouf) Is there such thing as a reluctant vocation that keeps returning to someone who tries to ignore it?

You are in good company.  There are actually many Saints who believed at one time or another that they could "ignore" God.  Fortunately, God, in His love for us, does not give up that easily.  You certainly have the freedom to "ignore" God's invitation.  God loves you and He will not force you to do anything.  The deeper question that you need to answer for yourself is this:  If God loves you, then would He ask you to do anything that might jeopardize that relationship?  Absolutely not!  Why would you even want to ignore Him?  Is your plan that excellent.  Remember, God has the perfect plan for you.  To ignore God's perfect plan for you is to settle for second best.  Most importantly, to ignore God is to ignore love.  That does not sound like a holy decision to me.

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7/24/07 (St. Sharbel Makhlouf)  How can I join the Diocese of Phoenix to study for priesthood being aware that am ex consolata seminarian and a Kenyan?

The "process" for becoming a seminarian vary from diocese to diocese.  You may want to enjoy being a Catholic for a few years before you begin to seriously discern the priesthood.  Some of the things you need to consider would include if you are interested in applying for the seminary would include:

• Must be a practicing Catholic who has a strong prayer life

• attends Mass regularly

• celebrates the sacrament of Penance and Reconciliation regularly

• is committed to Catholic teaching and morals.

• Needs to have lived in the Diocese of Phoenix for at least two years, and is active in some sort of parish ministry i.e. lector, altar server, usher, youth/young adult ministry, R.E. education program volunteer etc.

• Must have demonstrated ability to live a celibate life for two years.

• Must be in good physical and mental health.

• Must have the academic ability to complete a regular college program and/or graduate studies in theology.

If the above items are a part of your life right now then you may want to contact the Vocation Director.  Here are some others things you may want to consider doing as you discern God will for your life.

1. Contact the Vocations Office; through referral from another priest, religious, or lay person; letter or phone call of inquiry; participation at Vocations Office events, etc.

2. Follow-up or initial interview with Vocation Director which would include focusing on your attraction to the priesthood and rationale for seeking admission to the program.

3. If the above interview goes well then the You is given an application for the diocese.

4. Upon favorable review of aforementioned materials, you is interviewed by diocesan screening/review board, who submit recommendations for inclusion in your dossier.

5. Complete file and vocation director's recommendation is submitted to the bishop who makes final determination and choice of seminary.

The vocation director of your local diocese will be able to direct you to the seminary options in your diocese.

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7/24/07 (St. Sharbel Makhlouf)   I feel a calling to the ordained ministry but how does one reconcile pass mistakes with this new reality. I don't feel worthy because of my pass mistakes or will ever be worthy.

Sadly, your question pops up all too often.  Many times, people are lied to by the enemy who wants young souls, especially potential priests, to believe that they are no good, that their past mistakes are the summation of who they are in God's eyes.  Don't worry.  You will never be worthy... on your own.  BUT JESUS CHRIST has made you worthy.  Does that meant that you will be a priest?  Not necessarily.  There are many factors to be considered to be sure.  Click here for details.  If you are called to the priesthood, then God will remove all the major obstacles.  That does not always mean clear sailing.  There will still be challenges i.e., overcoming your past mistakes with God's grace.  There will undoubtedly be questions and concerns that you will have to overcome during the course of your discernment.  Often times, especially when one is discerning a vocation to the priesthood and/or religious life, there can be discouraging thoughts that bombard one's mind.  Certainly there are thoughts of unworthiness, as you mentioned or fears of the unknown that often find their way into the discernment process.  Take heart, the words "Do not be afraid" echo throughout Sacred Scripture some 366 times!  God will lead you along the right path if you know how to listen and follow His Voice.  Some of the best discernment decisions are born out of frequent Mass attendance and regular Confession.  It would not hurt if you spoke to a spiritual director (a priest or religious) about your vocation.  Faithfulness to your prayers will go a long way in leading you to do the Lord's will.  You will find His will.  He is not a tricky God and He is not trying to hide His will from you.  God Loves YOU.

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7/24/07 (St. Sharbel Makhlouf) What are the opportunities available for Third Orders, or lay ministries, in the Diocese of Phoenix? There are a few listed on the site, but I do not think that list is comprehensive.

Thank you for your question. I am not quite sure what you mean by opportunities but if you are asking if there are Third Orders in the Diocese of Phoenix the answer is definitely affirmative.  Although some are more active than others, I am sure that if you ask around at your particular parish or contact a religious order of your choice you will find plenty of "opportunities" to join a Third Order.  Concerning lay ministry, again that question leaves you with more options that not.  You might want to ask your local parish priest or staff member at your parish to direct you to the needs of that community.  Again, you will find there are a variety of opportunities for you to offer your time and your talent.  You might want to begin by asking the Lord to shed some light on your own gifts that you bring to the table... ask the Lord to give you the courage to utilize those gifts for His glory.  There you will find the peace you are seeking.

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6/25/07  I'm not very smart. Is there an entrance exam prior to going entering the seminary?

Thank you for your question.  While there is no entrance exam per se... part of the application process  in the diocese includes your transcripts and your SAT and ACT scores.  There is also an intelligence test given by an psychologist to determine your intellectual capability.  There may seem to be an emphasis on grades and education but that is not the only factor the diocese considers when looking at a prospective seminarian.  You can read some of the previous answers when looking at criteria for acceptance into the seminarian program.  Something you may want to consider... are you able to do academic work?  The seminary is certainly not looking for the next St. Thomas Aquinas, but they do expect you to be able to complete the school work.  You can contact the Vocation Office if you would like to discuss the specific classes that you will be expected to take at the seminary.

6/25/07  I am an Anglican, but feel called to the Sacred Priesthood and called to become a Roman Catholic. Is it possible that God is calling me to do both?

Thank you for your interesting question.  The short answer from based on a response from Father William P. Saunders in addressing the issue of married Anglican clergy.  He concludes that an ordained Episcopalian minister would have to make a profession of Faith and be received into the Catholic Church, and thereupon receive the Sacrament of Confirmation. He would then take appropriate courses which would enable him to minister as a Catholic priest. 

Click here for more information on celibacy and priesthood.

Article on Anglican - Catholic Unity

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6/5/07 (St. Boniface)  I was wondering if if something like ADHD or slight OCD would hinder a young man from becoming a priest? If you aren't medicated and don't let it interfere with your life (pick an active order vs comtemplative) would it be a cause for concern? I can't imagine with these things being so common in degrees, that a lot of priests/brothers don't have some type of quirk that is just part of who they are. Thank you for any information.

Thank you for your interesting and provocative question.  A potential candidate's physical and mental health are certainly factors in determining their future as a seminarian and a potential priest.  Obviously, there are a variety of health issues that could prevent someone from entering the seminary.  The question you pose could be cause for concern.  As with every candidate, a medical, dental, and psychological report would need to be completed prior to acceptance.  Every person, as you mentioned, has some degree of limitation, whether it be physical, emotional, spiritual, psychological, (usually all of them).  However, the rigors of active ordained ministry can be quite taxing and therefore, good mental, physical, and spiritual health are very important..  No bishop in his right mind would want to place a potential priest in danger by subjecting him to situations that could trigger some sort of undue stress resulting in a mental breakdown or worse.  Bottom line, ADHD or slight OCD may not hinder a young man from becoming a priest but it would certainly be factored in for the final decision of acceptance by the bishop.

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5/15/07 What is the maximum age at which a priest can be ordained which one can be ordained a priest?  Is this a requirement that varies by arch/diocese?

Yes, there are some dioceses and Religious Orders that do accept 'belated' vocations.  Typically the ages for entering an Order or a diocese are between 18 and 35 but some dioceses and religious orders do make exceptions.  There are several factors that would influence their final decision to accept a 'belated' vocation.  These might include things such as: health, debt, involvement in the Church to name a few.  Some of the Orders/dioceses that do accept 'belated' vocations will have some sort of age limit above that (for ex: 55 years of age).  You can check out the specifics on the vocation search located on the Institute of Religious Life website: www.religiouslife.com  or call the Director of Vocations for your particular diocese to find out the age limits.  Remember that a deacon is also an ordained minister in the Church and their age restrictions are less stringent.

The Lord does indeed call when He will...and for some it is later in life.  However sometimes the call to holiness can be confused with the call to a religious vocation.  This is something that can be better assessed by those who know you, most particularly a spiritual director. 

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4/9/07  What role do doubts play in discernment? I know that they are normal & probably necessary when discerning any vocation. So how can I tell if these doubts (especially about a vocation to religious life) are from God to help lead me along the right path, or from the devil who doesn't want me to do God's will? Thanks & God bless you for this wonderful website.

Thank you for your excellent question.  There will undoubtedly be questions and concerns that you will have to overcome during the course of your discernment.  Often times, especially when one is discerning a vocation to the priesthood and/or religious life, there can be discouraging thoughts that bombard one's mind.  There are thoughts or unworthiness or fears of the unknown that often find their way into the discernment process.  Take heart, the words "Do not be afraid" echo throughout Sacred Scripture some 366 times!  God will lead you along the right path if you know how to listen and follow His Voice.  Some of the best discernment decisions are born out of frequent Mass attendance and regular Confession.  It would not hurt if you spoke to a spiritual director (a priest or religious) about your vocation.  Faithfulness to your prayers will go a long way in leading you to do the Lord's will.  You will find His will.  He is not a tricky God and He is not trying to hide His will from you.  Pray these words given to the world by our Holy Father Pope Benedict XVI.  . 

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4/1/07 How does you get into one of the seminaries?

After one is officially accepted as a seminarian by a diocese, there are several factors involved in determining which seminary would be most appropriate for a particular candidate not the least of which is prior education.   The Diocese of Phoenix currently has three seminaries that we utilize for college and/or theology education.  If you are a college student you will be sent to the Pontifical College Josephinum since that is the only college seminary that we use right now.  There are three Theologates that we have to choose from and this is largely decided by all that is revealed in the application process.  Personality is certainly one of the factors but academics and faith background also play a large part in the selection. Ultimately, the bishop of the local diocese makes the final decision for you.

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3/27/07 I recently started reading the Bible because I had a near death experience... long story, but I always went to church, then I started falling back and boom, God made me realize it. It changed me A LOT.  The strange thing is, I have been having "unusual" things happening to me.  They don't frighten me because of my faith, but I think the Lord is calling me. My answer is "Yes".  What should I do? Thank you

God often uses difficult situations in our lives to help perfect us, especially if we embrace the difficulty.  When we trust God in these painful situation, we can often see that God is sanctifying us and strengthening us so that we can better serve Him.  Many people are often changed for the better through suffering.  A word of caution though, sometimes a person's response to a difficult situation is made in haste.  It is not a good idea to make dramatic, life-changing decisions when you are in the midst of "unusual" events.  It would be best for you to "test" the vocation with some solid prayer and discernment with a spiritual director.  If you are truly being called to the priesthood, the Lord will continue to reveal your vocation to you and possibly to those who know you well.  It might be wise for you to seek the advise from a few trusted individuals in your life who would be honest with you about your calling.

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3/26/07 If I understand correctly, one must be debt free prior to entering Religious Life. Is the same true for entering Priesthood? I have a large amount of student loan debt (in excess of $18k). Would this debt need to be paid off prior to entering a seminary if accepted into Priesthood?

Your question is a good one and seems to be happening more and more with the rising cost of education.  Fortunately, government student loans can be deferred as long as you are in school and registered as a full-time student. A diocese will typically send their seminarians directly to school whereas a religious order may or may not send you on to seminary or on to any formal education for that matter.  After a seminarian who is studying for a diocese has been ordained, he may be required to pay off his student loan at that time.

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3/22/07 How does one get into one of the seminaries?

Thank you for your question! You must first become a seminarian. Click here to find out how to become a seminarian. Once accepted as a seminarian, the bishop will decide which seminary will best suit your needs and the needs of the diocese.  Some diocese have their own seminary in which case, you would most likely attend your local seminary.  Some diocese rely on seminaries outside of their own diocese which is the case in the Diocese of Phoenix.

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3/4/07 What exactly is celibacy? How do you live it?

Thank you for your question! According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church #1579 "All the ordained ministers of the Latin Church, with the exception of permanent deacons, are normally chosen from among men of faith who live a celibate life and who intend to remain celibate 'for the sake of the kingdom of heaven.'[Mt 19:12] Called to consecrate themselves with undivided heart to the Lord and to 'the affairs of the Lord,'[1 Cor 7:32 .] they give themselves entirely to God and to men. Celibacy is a sign of this new life to the service of which the Church's minister is consecrated; accepted with a joyous heart celibacy radiantly proclaims the Reign of God.[Cf. PO 16.]"

Here is a link that would be good for you to take a look at: http://www.vocations.com/celibacy.html 

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3/3/07 What is life like in the seminary?

Thank you for your excellent question!  Like most places we find ourselves, life is what you make it.  While there is a great deal of structure in the seminary, there is also room for you to stretch you independence.  A typical day might look like this: 

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2/19/07 Let me preface this question with the fact that I am not Catholic. I know I was Baptized when young but am not sure if I was with the Roman Catholic or Orthodox Church. With that said, I have found myself thinking several times over the past few years of becoming a priest. I have always led a good, clean life (with the exception of not attending any church) and am not sure what to do about the thoughts I have.  I have visited many websites and researched quite a bit. I noticed 18-35 is the "general" age range accepted for entering the priesthood. At 28, am I reaching a type of point of no return with officially joining a church and discussing discernment?

Thank you for your question! Bottom line:  You need to start going to Church EVERY week.  Most priests celebrate holy Mass everyday, sometimes even several times a day.  If you have any aversion to Mass, then you are most likely not called to the priesthood.  Here are some other questions you might want to consider answering before you make the next step.

    Relation to God. Do you  have an active and real prayer life? Do you participate frequently in the celebration of Mass and the sacraments, especially the sacrament of Penance and Reconciliation? Is there evidence of a devotional life?

    Ability to articulate faith. You will need, in most cases, to preach/teach. Therefore, are you able to express or articulate the faith so that it makes sense in private and in public? Do you demonstrate an adequate knowledge and depth of understanding of the Catholic faith?

    Openness to lay apostolate. Are you able to share ministerial responsibility with laity? Are you able to collaborate authentically with all kinds of people as found in a typical parish, without dodging responsibility?

    Openness to others. Is there a healthy attitude and "ability to relate" with other men and women? Do you have a sense of appropriate boundaries?

    Openness and concern for the poor. Do you know something of the Scriptures and social teachings of the Church with regard to poor, the "poor in spirit," wherever they are found?

    Openness to ethnic diversity. Are you open to learning Spanish, or do you know a second pastoral language? How do you relate to people of various cultural backgrounds?

    Commitment and adherence to the Church's message. Do you have an adequate grasp and understanding of Catholic dogma and moral teachings so as to give solid witness of this to others?

    Respect for Church life. Are you comfortable with legitimate and approved diversity of expression within the life of the Church? Are able to avoid polarization and labeling of others?

    Openness to the entire formation program of the seminary. Do you demonstrate an ability to meet challenges and adapt to changes, as well as an openness to spiritual growth and maturity during formation?

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1/27/07 What is the difference between Orthodox priest and a Roman Catholic priest?

Thank you for your question!  The heart of the question is best understood in the context of the difference between the Orthodox Church and the Roman Catholic Church.  That is another question though.  Suffice it to say... the Orthodox priest serves as a priest in the Orthodox Church and the Roman Catholic priest would serve in the Roman Catholic Church.

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1/16/07 (Bernard, priest, and companions, proto-martyrs I order)  I've been discerning a vocation to the priesthood for several years and have been a seminarian for a diocese in the Midwest. It has helped a great deal to realize that I might not be called at all. But the main thing that's been a road block is celibacy. I have recently began realize that this is a big sacrifice. I just don't know if I can live a celibate chaste life. I've been celibate for seven years but struggle a great deal with chastity. Where do I go from here?  Should I take some time off?  Ordination is just around the corner. 

Thank you for you excellent question!  Your fears concerning the celibate life are not insurmountable with prayer, dialogue with your Spiritual Director, and daily Mass IF you are called to live a celibate life.  Celibacy is a "big sacrifice" as you say.  Marriage is a "big sacrifice".  Growing in holiness involves "big sacrifices".  Life involves sacrifice.  Life is difficult.  If you are honestly trying to live as Christ calls you to live, sincerely desiring holiness, then your life will be filled with sacrifices.  Sacrifice is not all bad.  Actually, sacrificing for others in the name of the Lord is what we are called to do. The Catechism of the Catholic Church talks about it this way. "We 'present [our] bodies as a living sacrifice, holy and acceptable to God,' (Romans 12:1) within the Body of Christ that we form and in communion with the offering of his Eucharist... As does the whole of the Christian life, the moral life finds its source and summit in the Eucharistic sacrifice" (CCC, 2031).  Consider what Pope Paul VI in SACERDOTALIS CAELIBATUS, his encyclical on the celibacy of the priest. "Priestly celibacy has been guarded by the Church for centuries as a brilliant jewel, and retains its value undiminished even in our time when the outlook of men and the state of the world have undergone such profound changes. Amid the modern stirrings of opinion, a tendency has also been manifested, and even a desire expressed, to ask the Church to re-examine this characteristic institution. It is said that in the world of our time the observance of celibacy has come to be difficult or even impossible" (SC, 1).

Another powerful statement from Pope Paul VI comes in paragraph 24.  He reminds us that "the response to the divine call is an answer of love to the love which Christ has shown us so sublimely. This response is included in the mystery of that special love for souls who have accepted His most urgent appeals. With a divine force, grace increases the longings of love. And love, when it is genuine, is all-embracing, stable and lasting, an irresistible spur to all forms of heroism. And so the free choice of sacred celibacy has always been considered by the Church "as a symbol of, and stimulus to, charity".  It signifies a love without reservations; it stimulates to a charity which is open to all. In a life so completely dedicated and motivated, who can see the sign of spiritual narrowness or self-seeking, and not see rather that celibacy is and ought to be a rare and very meaningful example of a life motivated by love, by which man expresses his own unique greatness? Who can doubt the moral and spiritual richness of such a life, consecrated not to any human ideal, no matter how noble, but to Christ and to His work to bring about a new form of humanity in all places and for all generations" (SC, 24)? May your love be complete as you seek to do God's will.

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1/13/07  I really enjoyed the discernment day the Diocese just had in December. Please give my thanks to Fr. Jonathan and especially the seminarians. I found their testimonies the most helpful.  How do you determine which seminary a seminarian should go to?  From the seminarians I've met in the parish and from the day of discernment, there seems to be common personality with each seminary. Do you take into account the your personality?

I am glad that you enjoyed the discernment day.  Concerning the seminary selection process... there are several factors involved in determining which seminary would be most appropriate for a particular candidate not the least of which is prior education.   The Diocese of Phoenix currently has three seminaries that we utilize for college and/or theology education.  If you are a college student you will be sent to the Pontifical College Josephinum since that is the only college seminary that we use right now.  There are three Theologates that we have to choose from and this is largely decided by all that is revealed in the application process.  Personality is certainly one of the factors but academics and faith background also play a large part in the selection. 

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12/20/06 Greetings, I have recently asked God to show me where He needs me as well as effect the necessary changes in my life that will better serve Him. My priest suggested that I would first need to be willing to change and open to God's direction for vocation. So, what specifically could I do to enhance my willingness and increase my openness? Any specific prayers or service orientated ideas that have proved useful? Thanks in advance.

You have asked a great question!!!  Obviously  you are willing to change whatever needs changing since you have already asked God to  "effect the necessary changes" in your life to "better serve Him".  One of the most consistent things in our life is change.  The most consistent thing in our life is that GOD LOVES US!  What is really needed is our response to that love.  Pope Benedict XVI's encyclical Deus Caritas Est reminds us that "being Christian is not the result of an ethical choice or a lofty idea, but the encounter with an event, a person, which gives life a new horizon and a decisive direction."  Saint John's Gospel describes that event in these words: “God so loved the world that he gave his only Son, that whoever believes in him should ... have eternal life” (3:16).  As children of God we all share the same vocation which includes, by our Baptism, a desire for holiness... for God.  There are many prayers.  First, go to Mass!  There you will meet our Eucharistic Lord!!!  Receive Him in Holy Eucharist.  Secondly, make the Sacrament of Confession a part of your prayer life.  Thirdly, go to our Blessed Mother.  Pray the Rosary.  She will teach you all about her Son.  Lastly, look again at Pope Benedict's words that come in the conclusion of his encyclical Deus Caritas Est:  "Finally, let us consider the saints, who exercised charity in an exemplary way. Our thoughts turn especially to Martin of Tours († 397), the soldier who became a monk and a bishop: he is almost like an icon, illustrating the irreplaceable value of the individual testimony to charity. At the gates of Amiens, Martin gave half of his cloak to a poor man: Jesus himself, that night, appeared to him in a dream wearing that cloak, confirming the permanent validity of the Gospel saying: “I was naked and you clothed me ... as you did it to one of the least of these my brethren, you did it to me” (Mt 25:36, 40).  Yet in the history of the Church, how many other testimonies to charity could be quoted! In particular, the entire monastic movement, from its origins with Saint Anthony the Abbot († 356), expresses an immense service of charity towards neighbor. In his encounter “face to face” with the God who is Love, the monk senses the impelling need to transform his whole life into service of neighbor, in addition to service of God."

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12/11/06 (St. Damasus I) I feel called to the priesthood. My diocese has no shortage of priests or possible vocation prospects. Do other dioceses, particularly with shortages actively seek outside their diocese? If so could you suggest some (I'm thinking of large metropolitan dioceses or very small "mission" ones but know of none in particular. BTW I'm practicing, have college education, and unmarried/comfortable with celibacy.

Praised be Jesus, Mary, Joseph and all the Angels and Saints!!! What a tremendous blessing it must be for you and your diocese to not have to worry about the shortage of priests.  Sadly, there does remain a shortage of responders to our Lord's invitation in some parts the world.  That reality exists in many diocese throughout the United States.  Often times, various dioceses do in fact "actively seek outside their diocese" but the Diocese of Phoenix prefers that you reside in the diocese for a minimum of two years before seeking application. There are often many cultural as well as language issues that need to be overcome in order for one to minister most effectively as a priest .  While there are exceptions... they are rare.  Each diocese varies and so it would be good for you to contact them directly.  You may want to find out which diocese you believe that you are being called to serve by the Lord and then contact them for further information.

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12/7/07 Should someone that has a canonical impediment reserved to The Holy See even consider the possibility that he is being called to the priesthood? How often are such impediments lifted by The Holy See?

Thank you for your excellent question.  You will find a very similar question with the answer by clicking .

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11/28/06 (St. Catherine Laboure) I have been in a great relationship for four years, I recently left my job as a Paramedic to work full time in Youth Ministry, and I have felt an attraction to the Priesthood. I was in discernment when I was younger and chose not to enter into formation. I want to know what is the best way to separate my will from Gods. I want to know if I am just attracted to the idea of the Priesthood, or if the Lord is truly calling me. I speak to my girlfriend about it and she has been very depressed and sad, and I don't like to see her suffering. Please Help, Thanks and God Bless !

Thank you for your excellent questions and sharing your concerns.  You say you "felt an attraction to the Priesthood".  Can you be so sure that your "feelings" where merely feelings?  God is not a trickster who is trying to trip you up.  He is God and being God, He created you.  He loves you and desires you to be with Him FOREVER in Heaven.  His will for you is perfect and so an honorable and ordered desire for you to have, would be to align your will with God's perfect will for you.  That is the best response... not to separate your will from His.  Your "attraction" to priesthood could be merely a fascination or it could really be God calling you to look more closely at this particular vocation. Are you really giving God an honest chance?

Concerning your girlfriend... there are not enough good men who are sincerely seeking holiness and are serious about doing the Lord's will.  I am sure that your girlfriend, as would most honest women, is looking for the descent qualities found in a man of God.  But if she really cares for you then she would truly desire you to do God's will... whatever that is.  Your dating her and discerning the priesthood is not helpful to anyone.  Your choosing to have one foot in "both worlds", that of an exclusive, dating relationship with a woman, and the world of discerning the priesthood will only continue to frustrate all involved.  The good news is that God loves you and He does have a perfect plan for you.  PRAY to do His will.  Listen for His voice.  God is not trying to fool you.  He is not calling you to lead a miserable life.  Do His will and all will be blessed by your decision.  So make one!

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11/26/06 (Christ the King) - I’ve been thinking about the priesthood since I was confirmed in high school. I’m interested to know the day to day life of a seminarian. I'm currently attending ASU. Is there anyway I can talk to one of the seminarians in person? I’ve always been shy in approaching them when I see them in my home parish. They always seem joyful and fun but they’re always talking to people. By the time they're done talking to people, it's time for them go serve the next mass.

I also use to see a lot of seminarians just hanging out at my home parish. I know some of them are from my parish. But I haven't seen them around in a while even during the summer.

Should I tell my priest that I'm thinking about the priesthood? I don't know him very well so I'm not very comfortable talking to him. Am I allowed to talk to other priests about this? If so, do you have any suggestions?

Thank you for your excellent questions and observations.  The seminarians are certainly available to speak with you.  You can contact them at the seminary during the school year to speak with them directly or you can wait until they come home for holidays.  In the summer months, the seminarians are usually assigned to a different parish in order to get a broader experience of the diocese.  You can always contact the Director of Vocation  at frkline@diocesephoenix.org and he should be able to put in contact with one of the seminarians.

It can be very helpful to speak to a priest that you feel comfortable speaking with about your vocation.  A good priest should not pressure you to become a priest or anything else for that matter.  You would do well to speak to a priest that challenges and motivates you to grow in holiness.  There are many priests that I would recommend you speak with in your area.  Feel free to contact me at frkline@diocesephoenix.org for more specific information.

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11/26/06 (Christ the King) - I am a new Catholic and have develop a serious affection for my faith. I also enjoy serving my fellow man. As a married person, I am obviously ineligible for Priesthood, but would seriously consider being a deacon. What things should I think about and where should I go for more information?

Thank you for your question.  Here are some insights gleaned from the diaconate office of the Diocese of Phoenix. 

First, speak with your family, friends and pastor about your sense of call. Next, you should call, write, or otherwise contact the Office of the Diaconate. This signals your interest in discerning a vocation to the diaconate, establishes you as an inquirer, and places you on the inquirer’s mailing list.

Someone representing the Office of the Diaconate will help you explore your sense of call. If you maintain your interest and feeling of a call, and if you meet the general criteria for deacon applicants, you will be given an application packet.

Applications are ordinarily processed only between July 1st and September 15 of each odd year. If you submit an application before or after these dates, it is likely that your application will be held for the next cycle. The pool of applicants are screened by an admission’s board during the fall of each year and those who are to be invited forward as an aspirant are notified by the Ordinary of their selection.

Applicants who are enrolled in the School of Ministry at Kino Institute prior to the review and selection process are not guaranteed selection. Recommendations are forwarded to the Bishop for his review after the admissions processes are completed.

If you would like to contact the Diaconate Office of the Diocese of Phoenix click on the following link:  http://www.diocesephoenix.org/diaconate/

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11/22/06 (St. Cecilia) - If someone feels called to the religious life, but his parish is pressuring him to join the diocesan priesthood, how should one deal with this?

Thank you for your excellent question.  You should not feel pressured into any way of life... particularly the priesthood or religious life.  This is your life we are talking about.  If God is calling you to a particular way of life then you have a responsibility to respond to God by living your life as He calls you to live it.  No one should pressure you to do something contrary to what God is calling you. 

It may be possible that the person pressuring you is unaware that you are considering the religious life and you would do well to let them know that you believe God is calling you to this particular way of life.  There is an adage that says: "As the water rises...all the boats rise together."  You are only obligated to do God's will and in doing His will, all are served.

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11/22/06 (St. Cecilia) - Are there vocations for a retired man?

Thank you for your excellent question.  Assuming that you are inquiring about vocations to ordained ministry, the answer would be absolutely.  Yes, there are some dioceses and Religious Orders that do accept 'belated' vocations.  Typically the ages for entering an Order or a diocese are between 18 and 35.  Some of the Orders/dioceses that do accept belated vocations will have some sort of age limit above that (for ex: 55 years of age).  You can check out the specifics on the vocation search located on the Institute of Religious Life website: www.religiouslife.com  or call the Director of Vocations for your particular diocese to find out the age limits.  Remember that a deacon is also an ordained minister in the Church and their age restrictions are less stringent.

The Lord does indeed call when He will...and for some it is later in life.  However sometimes the call to holiness can be confused with the call to a religious vocation.  This is something that can be better assessed by those who know you, most particularly a spiritual director. 

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11/21/06 (The Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary) - I am currently in R.C.I.A. and won't be "officially" Catholic until the Easter Vigil next year. I am not in college but I do have a high school diploma. I am interested in becoming a priest but I am not sure what to do about it right now because I am only a You for the next few months and also, I don't know what the educational requirements are to enter a seminary, or which seminary - as I live in Utah, I would go to. Can you please give me some guidance and information?

Thank you for your excellent question.  The "process" for becoming a seminarian vary from diocese to diocese.  You may want to enjoy being a Catholic for a few years before you begin to seriously discern the priesthood.  Some of the things you need to consider would include if you are interested in applying for the seminary would include:

• Must be a practicing Catholic who has a strong prayer life

• attends Mass regularly

• celebrates the sacrament of Penance and Reconciliation regularly

• is committed to Catholic teaching and morals.

• Needs to have lived in the Diocese of Phoenix for at least two years, and is active in some sort of parish ministry i.e. lector, altar server, usher, youth/young adult ministry, R.E. education program volunteer etc.

• Must have demonstrated ability to live a celibate life for two years.

• Must be in good physical and mental health.

• Must have the academic ability to complete a regular college program and/or graduate studies in theology.

If the above items are a part of your life right now then you may want to contact the Vocation Director.  Here are some others things you may want to consider doing as you discern God will for your life.

1. Contact the Vocations Office; through referral from another priest, religious, or lay person; letter or phone call of inquiry; participation at Vocations Office events, etc.

2. Follow-up or initial interview with Vocation Director which would include focusing on your attraction to the priesthood and rationale for seeking admission to the program.

3. If the above interview goes well then the You is given an application for the diocese.

4. Upon favorable review of aforementioned materials, you is interviewed by diocesan screening/review board, who submit recommendations for inclusion in your dossier.

5. Complete file and vocation director's recommendation is submitted to the bishop who makes final determination and choice of seminary.

The vocation director of your local diocese will be able to direct you to the seminary options in your diocese.

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Would it ever be possible for someone once married in the church and divorced to gain a religious vocation? Also, are the rules to become a brother the same as a priest regarding this?

Thank you for your excellent questions.  The first question concerning marriage/divorce requires a bit more information from you but at first glance, the answer would be yes, it is possible to pursue a religious vocation. Again, depending on the individual situation, persons who have received a church annulment are potential candidates for a religious vocation. 

Concerning your second question... there are different "rules" or guidelines concerning entrance into a religious community and the priesthood.  You may want to inquire into a specific order or diocese to find out they particular requirements.  All would require, at the very least, an annulment for those previously married.

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11/21/06 (The Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary) - How long does it take to get through Seminary?

Thank you for your excellent question.  Seminary formation varies from diocese to diocese and seminary to seminary.  If you have a high school degree but no college then you could enter a college seminary and be ordained in eight years.  If you have a college degree before entering the seminary, you may have six or seven years of seminary depending on which seminary you attend.

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11/21/06 (The Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary) - Would it be inappropriate for a man to even consider beginning the discernment process if there exists in his background a canonical impediment that would, unless lifted, prevent his ordination to the priesthood? (e.g., participation in an abortion 20 years ago) How often, if ever, are canonical impediments, particularly those reserved to The Holy See, lifted? If paying for an abortion is the cause for the impediment, would it be foolish to even consider the possibility that one might be being called to the priesthood?

Thank you for your excellent question concerning canonical impediments.  You are correct in stating that there are impediments to ordination that do require a dispensation before pursuing ordination.  These would include: insanity, apostasy, heresy, schism, marriage, private or public vows, voluntary homicide or abortion, attempted suicide, self-mutilation or mutilation of others, impersonating a deacon, priest, or bishop, or excommunication to name a few. 

There is no way for one to know exactly how often the Holy See lifts such impediments though many are left to the local bishop to decide.  Though paying for an abortion would be considered an impediment, it would not be considered foolish for someone to look into the possibility of being called to the priesthood  after the impediment was removed.  There are many factors involved in this particular situation that cannot be answered without further discussion.  You would do well to contact your diocesan canonist or local priest for further insights.

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11/21/06 (The Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary) - I have had a meeting with a vocational director and he is interested in me becoming a priest. He communicated that I should find a Spiritual Director.  My question is who should I look to for a Spiritual Director. If space and time permits please explain in detail what this S.D. will do for me. What ever information you are able to provide will be most appreciated.

Your question is certainly a good one.  If you are wanting to discern God's will for you, then it good to have some input from someone who can help you along the way.  A good spiritual director will be able to assist you by asking pertinent questions as well as offering helpful advise. Your spiritual director will be able to give you necessary information, which may include a Church teaching or the life of a Saint who could assist you along the way to God.   He/She should be a good listener.  If you choose a priest... you may want to celebrate the Sacrament of Confession during direction.  Most importantly, as good spiritual director should lead you to grow in holiness and in turn, deepen your awareness of God's presence in your life.  When choosing your spiritual director, it may be good to "interview" a couple of different vowed religious, priests, or deacons before making your final decision.  It is always a good idea to pray, asking God to help you to choose a good spiritual director.

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11/21/06 (The Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary) - Your site is well done and attractive. However, I am disappointed that Brothers are not mentioned as part of the Religious Consecrated life.

Thank you for your kind words.  We are currently working on including a section on Brothers as part of the Religious Consecrated life.  Please feel free to forward any information that you would like to see included on the site and we will do our best to get the information out.

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11/21/06 (The Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary) - I have had repeated impulses and a sort of perpetual calling to become a priest. Its strange though, sometimes its stronger than other times, its almost as