Formation - Missionary

The following is a general overview of the formation process for Missionaries. Individual communities will vary.

The priest missionary candidate, upon completing the discernment program and receiving a recommendation for acceptance into the seminary, begins his studies and formation in the fall semester.

Academic Studies

A basic university or college degree and some philosophy are a pre-requisite for theological studies. The candidate requiring philosophy credits can complete these while beginning his theology studies.

The first two years of theological studies follow courses in Scripture, Theology, Sacraments, Church teachings, and courses in pastoral ministry. Studies are done directed toward a degree.

Social, Communal & Prayer Life

The formation of a priest candidate includes: regular prayer, daily Eucharist, having a spiritual director, a program directed at personal growth and human formation, regular meetings with one's spiritual group for ongoing formation and sharing of one's journey. Also important are activities related to the social and communal life of the seminary.

Overseas Internship

After two years of theological studies, the priest candidate is sent overseas for a one-year Internship Program.This one-year guided program in a cross-cultural setting is done as part of a team with other missionaries in a designated mission area. The goal of this internship is to provide the candidate with the opportunity to experience adjusting to a new culture, perhaps learn a new language, practice pastoral skills, and grow spiritually in his understanding of what it means to be a missionary priest.

Upon completing his overseas Internship Program, the priest candidate returns to the seminary to finish his studies and prepare for ordination.

Diaconate

Near the conclusion of formal seminary studies, and with the recommendation of the director of formation and approval of the General Council, the priest candidate will be ordained to the Diaconate, a final step before ordination to priesthood.

Six Years

The ordinary length of time to ordination for an individual who begins the process having already completed a college or university degree is six years. Upon ordination, the new missionary priest in dialogue with the General Council receives his first mission assignment.

Information on this page is courtesy:
www.scarboromissions.ca/SFM_Priests/formation_priests.php