Program of Priestly Formation (Ascension)

PPF 83

Program of Priestly Formation

and teachers, academic records, standardized test scores, assessments of the applicant’s motivation conducted by experienced formators, and, if applicable, previous seminary evaluations. The seminary must verify the completion of all documentation before an applicant is admitted. The admission process by the ecclesiastical entity also must include a thorough physical examination to ensure that applicants possess the good health necessary for seminary training and priestly ministry. This exam should include HIV and drug testing along with screening that verifies biological maleness. A thorough assessment of an applicant’s marital history is a necessary part of the admission process. An applicant for the priesthood in the Latin Church must testify that he is not married, even if only civilly, or that, if he is married, he has received a dispensation from the Apostolic See. 127 If an Eastern Catholic discerner is married, a certificate of marriage is required along with the written consent of his wife 128 and any necessary consultations required by the Apostolic See. 129 Applicants who have received a declaration of matrimonial nullity should be carefully screened. Although these men may have canonical freedom to pursue the priesthood, it is important to ascertain if and how previous obstacles to a marriage commitment or possible scandal might affect their viability as fit applicants for priestly formation. Care must be taken to review the canonical declaration of nullity and the relevant documentation to ensure that the reasons and circumstances that serve as warrants for the declaration of nullity are fully disclosed to the sponsoring bishop or competent authority, rector, and the seminary admissions committee. If a previously married person has natural obligations toward a previous spouse, and/or primary responsibility for a minor child, this information 127 See CIC, c. 1047 §2, 3°. 128 See CCEO, c. 769 §1, 2°. 129 See Congregation for the Oriental Churches, Pontificia Praecepta de Clero Uxorato Orientali , June 14, 2014, AAS 106: 496-499.

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