Program of Priestly Formation (Ascension)

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Seminary Formation: Structural Elements

c. Model C . Configuration stage lasting three and one-half years: diaconate ordination upon successful completion of the configuration stage and the equivalent of four years of theological studies, 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. COMMUNITY 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 formation 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 communion 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 seminary community is the essential formational matrix for those preparing for ordained ministry, which itself “has a radical ‘communitarian form’ and can only be carried out as a ‘collective work.’” 201 The seminary community, then, is committed to fostering 198 In this last model, it could be possible for a candidate to take what is equivalent to four years of theological 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.

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200 Pastores Dabo Vobis , no. 12. 201 Pastores Dabo Vobis , no. 17.

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