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Seminarians
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Walking with our Future Priests
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Collaborating with the Office of VocationsThe formation journey begins long before a man’s first day in seminary. Ideally, it begins with his family, continues with his parish, and is supported by the larger community in which he “lives and moves and has his being.” The Office of Vocations seeks to identify men who have begun to hear God’s call to leave all and follow him, to accompany and guide them through a process of prayerful discernment, and to help them answer his invitation.
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Transitioning to the Office of SeminariansWhen a man determines that he is ready to apply for seminary, it is the responsibility of the Director of the Office of Seminarians to support guide him through the two-fold application process: (1) to request acceptance as a seminarian of the Diocese of Portland and (2) to request admittance to a college or major seminary of the Bishop’s choosing.
In collaboration with the seminary and the man himself, the Office of Seminarians supports his vocational discernment and priestly formation. From the moment he enters the seminary to the day he stands before the bishop for ordination, this Office accompanies each seminarian to ensure he is prepared for a priestly life and ministry that is holy, healthy, and joyful.
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Forming Men for Priestly Life and MinistryGuided by the current Plan for Priestly Formation, seminary formation includes four stages spanning approximately eight years. Each stage brings its own focus, rhythm, and graces:
- Propaedeutic Stage – A year dedicated to spiritual grounding and personal reflection.
- Discipleship Stage – Two years dedicated to the study of philosophy and human formation that deepens understanding, critical thinking, and personal identity in Christ.
- Configuration Stage – Three-and-one-half to four years dedicated to intensive preparation for priestly life and ministry through theological study, pastoral practice, and spiritual maturity.
- Vocational Synthesis Stage – Up to one year dedicated to integrating all previous formation in preparation for ordination.
All stages facilitate the seminarian’s human, spiritual, pastoral, and academic formation.
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What the Office of Seminarians DoesOur ministry serves one of the most important responsibilities in the life of the Church: forming priests who glorify God and serve His people with holy integrity, joyful sacrifice, and pastoral charity. The Office
- collaborates with the Office of Vocations to ensure a seamless transition from initial discernment to formal formation
- accompanies each man through the full arc of seminary formation
- ensures ongoing support and evaluation in collaboration with seminary faculty
- maintains communication between seminarians, pastors, parishes, and the Diocese
- helps to nurture a strong, prayerful, and healthy environment for priestly development
Seminiarian Directory
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Contact
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Director of Seminarians
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