The Rhode Island Catholic has introduced a series of articles profiling the young men who are currently studying for the priesthood for the Diocese of Providence. Currently numbering 21, they come to the Church to discern their call and deepen their commitment to the priestly vocation.
But the education and formation of priests does not come without cost. As in the secular world, the pricetag for higher education continues to rise; those committed to spiritual vocations are not immune to the ever-more-costly economics.
Seminary education for our future priests can last up to eight years, and includes not only academic, spiritual and pastoral formation, but personal formation as well. This comprehensive education is needed to help produce priests who are committed, prayerful, joyful and generous in ministering to God’s people.
As Pope Benedict XVI stated in his meeting with seminarians at World Youth Day, 2005 in Cologne, Germany: “Such study can at times seem arduous, but it is an indispensable part of our encounter with Christ and our vocation to proclaim Him. All this is aimed at shaping a steady and balanced personality, one capable of receiving validly, and fulfilling responsibly, the priestly mission.”
This weekend, parishes throughout the state will participate in a second collection to benefit the Seminarian Education Fund, a resource that benefits these young men, and, ultimately, all the faithful. We encourage all Catholics to support our seminarians with their prayers, and to contribute generously to the Seminarian Education Fund. Jesus said: “Come follow me.”
Many young men have answered this call. You can answer it as well, through your prayers and your generous support of them as they continue to discern and follow God’s will in their lives.
