Program of Priestly Formation (Ascension)

PPF 423

Seminaries

with the seminary board(s) and the rector. The process should clearly identify the scope of governance authority and responsibility, while protecting the principle of subsidiarity and avoiding intrusion into administrative matters of the seminary. The most important administrative policy is the mission statement of the seminary. Each mission statement must incorporate a clear understanding of and commitment to the formation of men for the ministerial priesthood. It is also important for the seminary to respond to the priorities of local Churches and the communities it serves through the establishment of appropriate policies. Proposals regarding governance policy are often initiated at the level of the seminary community where concrete needs and problems occur. After review by the seminary leadership, policy proposals of major importance are presented by the rector to the seminary board and to the appropriate ecclesiastical authority, for approval and promulgation as particular legislation. Consultation of the seminary community, including seminarians themselves, should be characteristic of policy making in seminaries. PLANNING Planning provides for the long-range stability of the seminary, the effective implementation of its mission, and good stewardship of all associated resources. A realistic conception of the seminary’s future should include effective planning regarding personnel, facilities, enrollment, finances, budget, and development. In their efforts to plan for the seminary’s future, bishops and major superiors should enlist the assistance of the seminary board as well as the rector and other appropriate seminary leadership.

421

422

423

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