HOW CAN I BECOME A CATHOLIC PRIEST? ...

 Please can you explain how I can enter the Major Seminary? I want to be a Catholic Priest 


I get asked the above question a lot. So let's attempt a response. It's important to note that Seminary Admissions may vary from Diocese to Diocese, on the one hand, and institutes of Consecrated Life, on the other hand. 


A. For many Dioceses in Nigeria, the process usually goes thus:


1. Diocesan Rallies: Diocesan rallies are events organised by the diocese to identify and select potential candidates for the priesthood. These rallies are usually held annually and involve various activities and assessments to evaluate the candidates.


2. Announcement and Invitation: The diocese will announce the date and details of the diocesan rally, inviting interested individuals to participate. This announcement is typically made in local parishes, schools, and through other diocesan communication channels.


3. Eligibility and Registration: Eligibility criteria for the diocesan rally may vary slightly between dioceses, but generally, candidates should be practicing Catholics, have completed secondary education, and meet the age requirements set by the diocese. Interested individuals must register for the rally within the specified period, usually by completing a registration form provided by the diocese.


4. Pre-Rally Preparation: Once registered, candidates may be required to undergo a period of preparation before the rally. This preparation might involve attending seminars, workshops, or spiritual retreats organised by the diocese. It aims to deepen the candidates' understanding of the priesthood and discernment process.


5. Diocesan Rally Activities: The diocesan rally typically spans several days and involves various activities. These activities can include:


   - Spiritual Exercises: Candidates participate in prayer services, Masses, and reflections aimed at deepening their spiritual lives.


   - Assessments and Interviews: Candidates may undergo assessments that evaluate their knowledge of Catholic teachings, aptitude, and suitability for the priesthood. Interviews with diocesan representatives or vocation directors may also be conducted.


   - Group Activities: Candidates engage in group activities that test their teamwork, leadership, and communication skills. These activities may include discussions, debates, or community service projects.


   - Personal Sharing: Candidates are often given an opportunity to share their personal faith journeys, motivations for priesthood, and experiences of discernment.


6. Selection Process: After the rally activities, the diocese evaluates the candidates based on various criteria, including their performance in assessments, interviews, group activities, and personal sharing. The diocesan vocation team or a selection committee carefully reviews each candidate's suitability for seminary formation.


7. Announcement of Selected Candidates: Once the selection process is completed, the diocese announces the names of the successful candidates. These candidates are then recommended for admission to the major seminaries for further formation and education.


8. Seminary Admission Process: The selected candidates proceed to the admission process of the major seminary associated with their diocese. This typically involves submitting the necessary documents, completing additional application forms specific to the seminary, and fulfilling any additional requirements set by the Seminary. These days, it would also require passing JAMB exams. 


It's important to note that the specific details and procedures may vary between dioceses. Therefore, it's advisable for candidates to consult with their local diocese or vocation director for the most accurate and up-to-date information on the diocesan rally selection process.


B. The requirements for admission into institutes of consecrated life in Nigeria can also vary depending on the specific institute and its charism. However, here are some general requirements that are often considered:


1. Age: Most institutes have a minimum age requirement for admission, typically ranging from 18 to 35 years old. Some institutes may have specific age ranges based on the type of consecrated life they offer, such as contemplative or apostolic.


2. Good Physical and Mental Health: Candidates are usually required to be in good physical and mental health to be able to fulfill the responsibilities and demands of the consecrated life. A medical examination or health assessment may be required.


3. Practicing Catholic: Candidates are expected to be practicing Catholics who have received the sacraments of baptism, confirmation, and Eucharist. A letter of recommendation from the candidate's parish priest or spiritual director is often required to confirm their active participation in the Church.


4. Vocational Discernment: Candidates should have a sincere and genuine call to the consecrated life and a desire to live the evangelical counsels of poverty, chastity, and obedience. They should have a deep prayer life and a commitment to grow in their relationship with God.


5. Education and Formation: While there is no specific educational requirement for admission, candidates are typically expected to have completed at least a secondary education, with an O level certificate. Institutes may also consider the candidate's intellectual capacity and willingness to engage in ongoing formation and study.


6. Moral Character and Emotional Maturity: Candidates should demonstrate a strong moral character, emotional maturity, and the ability to live in community. They should have good interpersonal skills, the capacity for self-reflection, and the ability to live harmoniously with others.


7. Recommendation Letters: Candidates are usually required to provide letters of recommendation from their parish priest, spiritual director, or other individuals who can attest to their character, spiritual life, and suitability for consecrated life.


8. Discernment Process: Institutes may have a discernment process that involves personal interviews, psychological evaluations, and a period of observation and discernment. This process helps both the candidate and the institute to discern the candidate's vocation and suitability for the particular charism of the institute.


It's important to note that each institute of consecrated life may have its own specific requirements and formation program.


It is therefore recommended to contact the institute directly or consult with a vocations director to obtain the most accurate and up-to-date information regarding their admission requirements and discernment process.


© Rev. Fr. Oselumhense Anetor, 2023

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