Program of Priestly Formation (Ascension)

PPF 291

Program of Priestly Formation

c. At the same time, this study of theology, as we have already noted, enriches and expands the personal faith of the seminarian studying it. 364 d. When theology is studied in the context of priestly formation, it cannot be detached from other human knowledge. In fact, it is to be integrated with other elements of human understanding, especially philosophy and the human sciences. 365 e. The seminary study of theology, because it begins in faith and ends in faith, must also flow from prayer and lead to prayer. 366 f. In a particular way, the theology studied in preparation for priestly ministry must find integration and focus in the liturgy, the celebration of the Mystery of Christ. g. Because theology studied in light of priestly mission and ministry must be directed to a practical wisdom, it must offer a complete and unified vision of the truths of faith. 367 This wisdom and unified vision, then, can be conveyed in the priest’s preaching and allow him to bring the Word of God into dialogue with the contemporary human situation. 368 h. Because theology is rooted in the Church’s faith and serves the faith of the Church, it must be studied in complete and faithful communion with the Magisterium. 369 i. Theology studied in a seminary and destined to contribute to the mission of the Church through priestly ministry must necessarily be concerned about restoring Christian unity. Theological studies must impart an adequate grasp of the Catholic principles of ecumenism. 370 The ecumenical imperative that flows from the prayer of Christ for his flock and the renewed vision of the Second Vatican Council demand this focus. 364 See Pastores Dabo Vobis , no. 53. 365 See Pastores Dabo Vobis , no. 53. 366 See Pastores Dabo Vobis , no. 54. 367 See Pastores Dabo Vobis , no. 54. 368 See USCCB, Fulfilled in Your Hearing: The Homily in the Sunday Assembly (Washington, DC: USCCB, 1982), 13. 369 See Pastores Dabo Vobis , no. 55. 370 See Second Vatican Council, Unitatis Redintegratio (1964), nos. 2-4.

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