Becoming a Priest

“ Whoever opens his heart to Christ will not only understand the mystery of his own existence, but also that of his own vocation; he will bear the abundant fruit of grace.” - Pope John Paul II,  Message for the 42nd World Day of Prayer for Vocations

Just as he called the apostles, Jesus still calls men to be priests. The vocation of priesthood is a call to share in the priesthood of Jesus Christ so that his unique saving mission may continue through pastoral service, proclamation of the Word and a celebration of the sacraments, especially the Eucharist and the Sacrament of Reconciliation. 

When discerning to be a priest, one should have a love for God, His word and His church, a desire to serve, a heart that can listen, a spiritual calling by God, a desire to deepen one's relationship with God, and a generosity in sharing one's time, talent, and gifts with others.

There are four main areas of study and development when preparing for the priesthood: human formation, spiritual formation, pastoral formation and academic formation. If a man goes to a college seminary, he will have the same classes as a regular liberal arts college with the addition of coursework in philosophy and ones which focus on the Church and God. After college he enters theology where time is spent studying the Bible and the teachings of the Church.

For more information, contact Rev. Daniel Hennessey of the Office of Vocations at the Archdiocese of Boston at 617-746-5949 or visit http://www.vocationsboston.org.