Program of Priestly Formation (Ascension)

PPF 145

Program of Priestly Formation

This stage always takes place after the completion of the configuration stage (i.e., the stages are never concurrent). A seminarian petitions for diaconate ordination at the conclusion of the configuration stage or during the vocational synthesis stage. 195 Because the mission of the diaconate is oriented toward ministry, rather than academic study, it would be optimal for the seminarian to complete the equivalent of four years of theological studies before petitioning to receive diaconal ordination. 196 Having completed all of his academic requirements, a man can peacefully turn his attention toward diaconal and priestly ministry. With the foregoing in mind, the following are three flexible models regarding the vocational synthesis stage that meet the requirements of the Ratio Fundamentalis and are adapted to the realities of priestly formation in the United States. a. Model A . Configuration stage lasting four years: diaconate ordination upon successful completion of the configuration stage (including four full years of theological studies), and vocational 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.

145

146

147

195 See Ratio Fundamentalis , no. 73. Although CIC, c. 1032 §1, says that “those aspiring to the presbyter ate can be promoted to the diaconate only after they have completed the fifth year of the curriculum of philosophical and theological studies,” it does not mandate this practice; CIC specifies the min imum amount of time prior to diaconate ordination. The Ratio Fundamentalis specifies that a man may not petition for orders until the completion of the configuration stage. 196 See Ratio Fundamentalis , no. 73. 197 See CIC, c. 1031 §1.

78