Program of Priestly Formation 6th edition

66 | PROGRAM OF PRIESTLY FORMATION

synthesis stage lasting at least six months in a parish after leaving the seminary). 197 b. Model B . Configuration stage lasting three and three-quarters years: diaconate ordination upon successful completion of the configuration stage, and vocational synthesis stage lasting one to three months in the seminary (to complete the four years of theological studies) and then at least six months in a parish after leaving the seminary. c. Model C . Configuration stage lasting three and one-half years: diaconate ordination upon successful completion of the configu ration stage and the equivalent of four years of theological stud ies, and vocational synthesis stage lasting at least six months in a parish after leaving the seminary. 198 After an initial decision to observe one of the models indicated above for the vocational synthesis stage, time may reveal that a shift to another of the models would be more beneficial for an individual deacon or a particular diocese. 148. 149. Priestly formation occurs in the context of a community, whether a seminary or a house of formation. It is “a continuation in the Church of the apostolic community gathered about Jesus” in which men called to share in a unique way in the priesthood of Christ relive today the forma tion offered to the Twelve by the Lord. 199 What follows also applies to religious seminarians mutatis mutandis. The seminary’s life in community mirrors ecclesial communion, which itself is rooted in the Blessed Trinity. This ecclesiology of commu nion lived out in seminary community is “decisive for understanding the identity of the priest, his essential dignity, and his vocation and mission among the People of God and in the world.” 200 Viewed in this way, the semi 150. COMMUNITY

197 See CIC, c. 1031 §1. 198 In this last model, it could be possible for a candidate to take what is equivalent to four years of theolog ical studies, eight semesters, in three and one-half years, possibly using summer sessions. It must be kept in mind that an exaggerated emphasis on the intellectual dimension should not restrict growth in the other three dimensions of formation. 199 See Pastores Dabo Vobis , nos. 60-61. 200 Pastores Dabo Vobis , no. 12.