Program of Priestly Formation 6th edition

124 | PROGRAM OF PRIESTLY FORMATION

286. Besides philosophical and theological studies for the intellectual dimension of discipleship stage, formation should provide seminarians with an understanding of the historical and cultural context of their faith. Men who have more extensive prior education but who might not have a full, systematic liberal arts formation should be provided a curriculum that supplies for lacunae in this area. The Catholic intellectual tradition (e.g., literature and the arts) should be a part of such a curriculum. In addition, education in rhetoric and communications as well as language study is appropriate. Latin and Greek are especially important, since competence in these languages is necessary for graduate theological studies. The study of Spanish or other pastoral languages should be included in the course of studies throughout the period of priestly formation, including the disciple ship stage. As stated earlier in the propaedeutic stage, international semi narians should complete an acculturation program and receive adequate instruction in the English language (if English is not their primary language), often in an ESL (English as a second language) program of study, prior to beginning the propaedeutic stage. Regional accrediting agencies require adequate proficiency in the English language as demon strated by a TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language). In addition to the study of US history and culture and of the English language, these programs may also supplement the seminarians’ academic and pastoral background as a preparation for the study of philosophy and theology. Seminarians from the mainstream culture of the United States whose native language is English continue the intercultural competency training received during the propaedeutic stage into the discipleship stage, including the continued study of another language to meet the pastoral needs of the ecclesiastical entity. CULTURAL PREPARATION PROGRAMS 287. 288.

DISCIPLESHIP STAGE BENCHMARKS

289. His study of philosophy helps the seminarian to learn the first truths of the natural order, deepens his understanding of the human person, and gives him the framework upon which to build once he concentrates