Guide to Ongoing Formation for Priests (Ascension)

GOFP 243

Guide to Ongoing Formation for Priests

PART 1: KEY LEADERSHIP IN THE ONGOING FORMATION OF THE RECENTLY ORDAINED PRIEST

243 As this Guide indicates, the most important figure in ongoing formation is the priest himself. His humble self-awareness of the need for continuous conversion and growth is the essential ingredient for the effectiveness of any program in his life. The Diocesan Bishop 244 This document continually emphasizes the role of the diocesan bishop in ongoing formation. This importance is especially acute in the case of the recently ordained. These first years build upon and strengthen the relationship between the priest and his diocesan bishop that formed during the priest’s years of initial formation. Ongoing formation programming helps the new priest understand his place in the wider mission of the diocese and helps him recognize the link between the exercise of his ministry and that of his diocesan bishop. The programming also helps the diocesan bishop get to know his new priests better and gain insights for their future work and assignments. Above all, he exercises a fatherly role to encourage, admonish, and guide his spiritual sons. Although it may not be reasonable for the diocesan bishop to take part in every aspect of the ongoing formation of the recently ordained, his absence would seriously diminish its mission. In large dioceses the diocesan bishop might call upon auxiliary bishops to assist; but in all cases, the plan should directly involve the diocesan bishop and give him time with the new priests. The Pastor 245 The first assignment of the new priest has long-term effects upon his life and ministry. Care must be exercised in assigning new

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