The end of spiritual, human, and intellectual formation at the seminary is pastoral charity.
Although parish work more properly befits the Configuration and Vocational Synthesis Stages of formation, the practice of pastoral charity begins in the seminary, with concern for the spiritual and temporal welfare of one’s brothers. In community, Pre-Theologians learn to receive affirmation and correction, to develop listening and conversation skills, to collaborate, to take initiative, to exercise leadership, to practice conflict-resolution, and to care for others.
Moreover, the Pre-Theology Program boasts several apostolic initiatives that offer seminarians a sense for ministry, and an opportunity to live the charity of Christ the Good Shepherd.
“The whole formation imparted to candidates for the priesthood aims at preparing them to enter into communion with the charity of Christ the Good Shepherd. Hence, their formation in its different aspects must have a fundamentally pastoral character” (PDV 57).
Common Components
Pastoral formation in Pre-Theology is a remote – not a proximate – preparation for ministry. It aims to provide ministerial experience for the sake of discernment, and to develop the virtue of zeal – “the ardent desire to bring all people closer to the Lord” (PPF 370o).
In Pre-Theology, the focus is more on relationship and identity than it is on mission.
Still, through moderate participation in the practical reality of apostolic service, the Pre-Theologian may begin to cultivate the heart of a pastor.
Pastoral experience feeds the seminarian’s prayer, as he attends to his desires and to the movements of his heart, relating them to the Lord, and receiving Lord’s desires for him.
Features of the Propaedeutic Stage
Features of the Discipleship Stage
